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Be inspired and find travel ideas for your next trip!Tue, 26 Sep 2017 13:30:45 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.2https://wherewouldyougo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cropped-fav-32x32.pngWhere Would You Gohttps://wherewouldyougo.com
323210 days in Western Australia’s South West Regionhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/australia/10-days-western-australia/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/australia/10-days-western-australia/#respondTue, 26 Sep 2017 13:28:06 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4331From stunning beaches to lush forests, scuba diving to whale watching, world class wine to mouthwatering Australian dishes, all these can be experienced in the South West region of Western Australia. Having only 10 days will force you to make some hard choices. However, by organizing your itinerary in advance, minimizing your travel time and...

]]>From stunning beaches to lush forests, scuba diving to whale watching, world class wine to mouthwatering Australian dishes, all these can be experienced in the South West region of Western Australia. Having only 10 days will force you to make some hard choices. However, by organizing your itinerary in advance, minimizing your travel time and prioritizing which destinations you would really like to see, you can make the most of your vacation. Our suggested itinerary ensures that you truly experience the rich culture and the natural wonders of this beautiful country; to see the most in 10 days. Ready to go?

Things to know before traveling to Australia:

Language – English is the official language in Australia, although you will be surprised by many other different languages spoken across the country.

Currency exchange – The official currency of Australia is the Australian dollar. Australia is a well-developed country with a good banking and financial infrastructure. This means, exchanging money is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in the world. You may transact with banks, foreign exchange bureaus, international airports and hotels. You may also use debit cards and credit cards but watch out for ATM fees and foreign transaction fees, which can be very high per transaction. It is also good to know that there are plentiful of ATMs available throughout the country so you will surely have easy access to cash.

Australian dollar bills and coins (Surie / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Australia. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Observe the same precautions with your personal safety and health as you would in any other country. For any type of emergencies, you may call 000 if you need a quick response from the fire service, police, ambulance or search and rescue.

Getting around – Getting around Australia, where major tourist attractions are thousands of miles apart, can be a bit daunting and time consuming so it is best to explore by region. Public transport in Western Australia is more appealing to budget conscious travelers as it is served by trains, buses and ferries. For the ultimate road trip adventure, driving is another fantastic option. If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver to take you around Western Australia. This option is expensive but it will give you complete control of the trip.

Where to stay – There’s a great variety of accommodation in Western Australia, ranging from small guesthouses to five-star luxury hotels. In almost any town, there’s something for every level of comfort and budget. If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, you have to find an accommodation in Perth, Dunsborough, Augusta, Pemberton and Albany.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Perth

Take an international flight to Perth Airport. It is best to get an early morning arrival so you could fight off your jet lag before you go exploring in the afternoon. After check into your preferred accommodation, minimize your jet lag by spending a lot of time out in the sunlight so your body can adapt to its new surroundings.

In the afternoon, take advantage of Transperth’s free public transport and visit some of the most popular attractions in Perth. If you start and finish within the zone from Northbridge to West and East Perth, you can ride the bus without buying a ticket. Remember to look for red FTZ logo on bus stops to identify free travel zones. If you just want to take it easy on your first day and just soak in the atmosphere of Perth, make your way to the iconic State War Memorial in Kings Park.

Kings Park with its State War Memorial is the most popular visitor destination in Western Australia (beeboys / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2: Perth – Bunbury – Dunsborough

On day 2, rise early and embark on one of the most interesting day trips out of Perth by heading to Bunbury’s Dolphin Discovery Centre. This center can be reached in just 90 minutes by road from south of Perth. Under supervision of marine biologists, guests can interact with wild Bottlenose dolphins of Koombana Bay in their natural habitat. Boat-based dolphin watching and swimming tours are also offered in the center. For more information and ticket prices, you may visit the center’s web page.

Bottlenose dolphins in Koombana Bay (frerd / Shutterstock.com)

In the afternoon, make your way to your next destination, Dunsborough, where you will stay for three nights. You can also make a quick stop at Busselton and take a tour of the Underwater Observatory.

Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse is a 20 metres (66 ft) high cylindrical tower built of limestone that still uses its original first order Fresnel lens made by Chance Brothers (Natalia Vostrikova / Shutterstock.com)

Day 4: Dunsborough – Margaret River

On day 4, continue south and explore some of the most popular attractions in Margaret River Town. This small coastal town south of Perth is famous for its boutique wineries, craft breweries, gourmet produce stores, beaches and world-class surf breaks. To get to Margaret River Town from Dunsborough, board one of the buses of South West Coach Lines, the bus company that connects Perth and the South West Region.

On day 5, enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Dunsborough. After check out, head to Augusta, a sleepy town in the most south-western part of Australia. Some of the must see attractions in this town are Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Hardy Inlet, Blackwood River and Jewel Cave. If your travel dates are between June and August, you might see thousands of whales passing along the coastline.

On day 6, check out from your accommodation in Augusta and make your way to Pemberton, situated in the heart of Karri Tree County. It is here you will find the best forest vantage points – the Gloucester Tree, taste Western Australia’s best wines and explore the largest inland dune system – the Yeagarup Dunes. There are also plenty of outdoor activities for fun-loving and adventure-seeking travelers such as kayaking, canoeing and horseback riding.

Gloucester Tree may look scary but it is very easy to climb up (Michelle Holihan / Shutterstock.com)

After having a filling breakfast, set out this morning and head east to Denmark, where you will be staying overnight. You may also stop at some of the places along the way and visit the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk in Walpole. Then, enjoy the scenic view on the way to Denmark. Check into your preferred accommodation in the afternoon before you visit some attractions in town. You can also take it easy and just eat at one of the top rated restaurants in the area like Kirby’s at Rickety Gate Restaurant, The Lake House and Pepper & Salt Restaurant.

Tourists at the Valley of the Giants tree top walk (EA Given / Shutterstock.com)

Scenery of houses and Albany Entertainment Centre by the sea on a cloudy day (p_saranya / Shutterstock.com)

Catch a bus to Albany in the morning. The route is run by Transwa and the trip takes about an hour. Prices start at 10 AUD. Once you are in the bustling city of Albany, check into your preferred accommodation. Visit some attractions in the afternoon like Princess Royal Fortress, Discovery Bay, National Anzac Centre and Mount Clarence. If you are in Albany on a weekend, then you are lucky to get a taste of fresh local produce at Farmer’s Market.

The National ANZAC Centre overlooking King George Sound, a museum that pays tribute to those Australian and New Zealanders who served during World War I (Emma Jones / Shutterstock.com)

Today is your last day in Australia. Spend the rest of your day checking out some attractions in Albany that you might have missed. Fit in one last amazing breakfast or lunch in the town. You could even squeeze in some souvenir shopping before you travel to the airport back to Perth.

If you have spare time on your last day, you can go and snap some Instagram worthy shot of the wind power turbines on the coast (Detchart Sukchit / Shutterstock.com)

This is the end of our 10-day suggested itinerary to the South West region. If the pace gets too hectic, just chill out and prioritize which area you would really like to visit. This part of Australia may seem too big and distant, but it is a great travel destination rich in world class scenery.

Have been to Western Australia or anywhere else in Australia? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/australia/10-days-western-australia/feed/0Explore Manila through its food culture – Filipino food not to be missedhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/manila-filipino-food-culture/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/manila-filipino-food-culture/#commentsTue, 19 Sep 2017 17:33:07 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4315Filipino food may not be as famous as that of the Japanese, Thai or Malaysian food, but there’s so much more in the Philippines that you should try. If you are transiting through Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport with 24 hours or less between flights, then be sure to make the most of your layover....

]]>Filipino food may not be as famous as that of the Japanese, Thai or Malaysian food, but there’s so much more in the Philippines that you should try. If you are transiting through Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport with 24 hours or less between flights, then be sure to make the most of your layover. You may not consider yourself lucky if your layover happens to be in Manila, but trust us, there are highlights that you don’t want to miss. This 24-hour suggested itinerary will lead you to the city’s famous foodie attractions and will help you make the most of your layover. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs. Enjoy Manila!

Things to know before traveling to the Philippines:

Language – The national language was labeled Filipino to acknowledge and embrace the existence of many English and Spanish-derived words. Foreign tourists might be confused with Filipino language as Tagalog is also widely spoken in most parts of Luzon. Filipino language is basically Tagalog with inclusions of languages other than Tagalog. Communicating is relatively easy as most Filipinos, especially in urban areas, can speak a decent level of English.

Social norms and etiquette – Being a Spanish Colony for over three hundred years and being under the United States for 50 years, foreign values have been adapted by Filipinos in their own peculiar fashion. For a foreign traveler, it is important to know that Filipinos, like most Asians, stress public harmony and overt conviviality. Any indication of conflict is readily buried and confrontation is frowned upon. Filipinos are extremely tolerant people, and are generally happy, generous and gregarious.

Money and costs – The official currency of the Philippines is the Peso (₱). Exchanging money in the Philippines is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. The Philippines is well serviced by a mixture of local and international banks offering widespread ATMs and online services. International credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express, are widely accepted at big establishments. Make sure to bring Philippine peso if you are traveling to rural or remote areas.

Philippine peso currency bills (small1 / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for the Philippines. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid all travel to all areas in Mindanao due to serious threat of terrorism and kidnapping. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists. If you decide to take jeepneys, do not carry large sums of money and always keep your bags close to you.

Getting around – Getting around Manila and taking public transportation might be a shocking experience to foreign visitors. Transportation options include Light Rail Transit (LRT), Manila Metro Rail Transit (MRT), cab, bus, jeepneys and tricycle. If you are commuting during rush hours (7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM), taking the LRT or MRT is not a good idea. If you are travelling for short distances, jeepneys are your best bet! Just say the word “para” if you want the driver to stop so you could alight to your destination. If you prefer to take a cab, take note of some reputable taxi companies such as MGE Transport, Basic Taxi, EMP, Dollar Taxi and Sturdy Taxi. Uber is a great alternative to taxis that is extremely popular in Manila.

Where to stay – Manila has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. Budget hotels, bed and breakfasts, apartment and condo rentals, youth hostels and guesthouses are aplenty in the capital. Ermita or Malate District is a great choice where the best and exciting nightlife can be found. It is also a great base for exploring the best attractions of Manila. Bonifacio Global City and Makati are among the trendiest of places.

A 12-hour foodie adventure in Manila, Philippines

9 AM

Assuming you had to cross an ocean to get to Manila, your first day will be rife with jet lag. Take a flight that arrives in Manila as early as possible and check in to your preferred hotel/hostel. To walk off your jet lag, hit the nearest restaurant in Malate or Ermita. Our first matter of business is breakfast. Obviously, the first meal of every trip should be solid. So, we recommend some Tapsilog, a popular breakfast in the Philippines made from beef tapa with garlic fried rice and sunny-side up egg.

If you want breakfast on the go, then look no further than the Wholesome Table located at Bonifacio Global City. They serve some of the best organic breakfasts in the metro like avocado toast, egg and cheese toast, and wild mushroom toast.

12 PM

Looking for a place to experience some of the famous Filipino food items for lunch? Then we hope our suggestion will prove useful when you visit Manila. Filipinos are huge rice eaters, and lunch is no exception. Our suggestion is Crispy Dinuguan of the Kanin Club. Dinuguan (pork blood stew) is a popular Filipino dish that is mainly comprised of pork meat simmered in pig’s blood, with the addition of garlic, chili, vinegar and green pepper. It may not look appetizing, but trust us, it tastes so good! Aside from rice, eating Dinuguan with Puto (Filipino steamed cake) is another great combination.

Summer in Manila can be really hot and one of the best ways to cool down is to enjoy some summer desserts. We can’t think of any other summer treats in Manila than Halo Halo (literally means “Mix-Mix”). It is a a popular Filipino dessert made from shaved ice topped with various ingredients like macapuno (silky coconut), sago (pearls), ube (purple yam), nada de coco (coconutgelatin), lank (jackfruit), kamote (sweet potato), Leche Flan (Crème caramel) and ice cream. Evaporated milk will then be poured before serving.

Halo-halo (also known as Haluhalo) is probably one of the most popular Filipino food. It is a mixtures of shaved ice and evaporated milk to which are added various ingredients, including boiled sweet beans, coconut, sago, gulaman, tubers and fruits (vibrantlyhue / Shutterstock.com)

7 PM

Have some sisig for dinner! “I think sisig is perfectly positioned to win the hearts and minds of the world as a whole,” said by the celebrity chef and TV host Anthony Bourdain. What is this you ask? It is basically a dish made up of pork, rice and egg. Some people might think this pork dish might not be that special, but in the Philippines, it is so much more than that. With hundreds of restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to know where to eat pork. So, our suggestion is Trellis Restaurant at Diliman, Quezon City.

Sizzling pork sisig (bonchan / Shutterstock.com)

If you are traveling in a group, we recommend a hot pot dinner at Macao Mini Hotpot Seafood Restaurant located at Binondo, Manila. Hot pot did not originate in Manila, but the Filipino-Chinese made their own variation. Macao Mini Hotpot Seafood Restaurant is one of the most popular hotpot places in Binondo, and we totally understand why. They serve a perfect balance of fresh ingredients, delectable sauces and two types of savory sauce cooked with a simmering pot of stock.

9 PM

The huge metropolis Manila knows how to party. The nightlife in the city runs the gamut, from the rowdy bars to red light district and upscale night clubs. If you love craft beers, then the Bottle Shop in Taguig, Manila is for you. If you love whisky, then go to Lit Japanese Whisky Bar or Manadalay Bar. If you just want to dance the night away, then there is the Palace Pool Club located at Bonifacio Glabol City

Have you been to Manila or anywhere else in the Philippines? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/manila-filipino-food-culture/feed/2Discover Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan in 5 dayshttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/lake-issyk-kul-kyrgyzstan-5-days/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/lake-issyk-kul-kyrgyzstan-5-days/#respondMon, 18 Sep 2017 05:25:35 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4301Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia and is one of the world’s sparsely populated countries. Many of us do not know that it has so many destinations that are Instagrammable and bucket list worthy. The problem is, Kyrgyzstan is a rugged and big country that it will force you to make some hard...

]]>Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia and is one of the world’s sparsely populated countries. Many of us do not know that it has so many destinations that are Instagrammable and bucket list worthy. The problem is, Kyrgyzstan is a rugged and big country that it will force you to make some hard choices. We know the drill. You’ve only got less than a week in Kyrgyzstan, but you want to see as much as possible right? Our suggested itinerary ensures that you truly experience the rich culture and the natural wonders of this beautiful country; to see the most in 5 days. So let’s go go and discover Lake Issyk-Kul?

Things to know before traveling to Kyrgyzstan:

Language – The Kyrgyz is the official language in Kyrgyzstan. Russian and Uzbek are the other languages spoken by many. English is not widely spoken in the country but mostly members of the younger generation in larger cities like Bishkek. Before entering the country, it is advisable to learn a few Kyrgyz/Russian words and phrases to facilitate your travel and to get to your destination quicker. If you are traveling with a help from a tour operator, then you can get by without learning the language.

Currency exchange – The Kyrgyz som is the official currency of Kyrgyzstan. Exchanging money is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, malls, local banks, and money changers (called obmen balyot) throughout Bishkek. ATMs (called Bankomat in Russian) are plentiful, all accepting international credit cards and debit cards, so it’s easy to withdraw your money in Kyrgyz som. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most high-end restaurants and hotels but keep in mind that “cash is king” in Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyz som xurrency bills (Ravshan Mirzaitov / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Kyrgyzstan. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Although most visits are trouble free, remain vigilant because crimes like pick pocketing and theft do occur especially in Bishkek. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists.

Getting there – Entering Kyrgyzstan is not as hard as most people think. Through the Kyrgyz Railroad Network, you can get to Bishkek all the way from Moscow, Russia. You may also travel by air to Manas International Airport. The airport serves flights to and from most major and some smaller cities in the country and some international destinations including Russia, Turkey, London, Germany, and Almaty, Kazakhstan, which is the most frequent air connection.

Getting around – Bishkek features a good transport network consisting of buses, marshrutkas (minivans) and taxis. Buses are great if you are traveling short distances. If you’re going right across the country, it’s best to use the train or consider taking a short flight. Renting a car and driving on your own is not advised because road travel in Kyrgyzstan can be hazardous, as roads are often poorly maintained. Locals have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe driving practices.

Where to stay – Kyrgyzstan has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. No trip to the country would be complete without staying in a traditional Yurt camp, traditional tents made of felt and well insulated. This experience will give you a glimpse of Kyrgyz family life and taste authentic Kyrgyzstan food. Make sure to check out Community Based Tourism Kyrgyzstan (CBT) to make it easier to plan your hiking trips and yurt stays.

Day by day itinerary: Discover Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan in 5 days

Day 1: Bishkek

Your 7-day adventure in Kyrgyzstan starts today! Schedule a flight that will arrive early in Manas International Airport (FRU). The airport is about 25 kilometres away from the city centre and it will take about 50 minutes to get there. Super Taxi and Express Taxi are available outside the Arrival Hall and provides 24/7 service to the passengers. You may also take the marshrutka #153 and #380 to get to the city center. After check in at your preferred accommodation, minimize your jet lag by spending a lot of time out in the sunlight so your body can adapt to its new surroundings. Wear a comfortable walking shoes as you will do a lot of walking for today.

Ala-Too Square, the central square of Bishkek. The square was built in 1984 for the 60th anniversary of the Kyrgyz SSR (Elena Lar / Shutterstock.com)

There is no better way to get acquainted to the city than visiting Ala-too Square, the main central square of Bishkek. Here, you’ll witness the ceremonial changing the guard ceremony every hour. At the center you’ll find the 10-meter bronze statue of the Mighty Manas and at the perimeter you’ll see the Museum of Sculptures, the People’s Friendship Monument, and the State History Museum. End the day at the Panfilov Park, a spacious green space and is a popular hangout place for locals. After your historic tour, make your way back to your hotel and get a good night sleep.

Before you check out the countryside, be aware of the toilet situation on Kyrgyzstan. If you’re staying in a western-style hotel, then this would not be an issue. If you, however, will be staying in a yurt, then expect a pit toilet. Also, avoid using the toilets in gas stations as they usually lack any proper washing facilities. Make sure to pack some toilet paper and hand sanitizers when you travel.

On your second day, check out from your accommodation and take a marshrutka to the lakeside town of Cholpon-Ata, where you will stay overnight. Located on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, the town is famous for its mineral waters and stud farm. The drive from Bishkek to Cholpon-Ata is approximately 3 to 4 hours, but you have the option to stop along the way for some photographs. There are numerous selection of accommodations in town, most of it are located centrally with close proximity to Lake Issyk-Kul.

Waterfalls in the Grigorevsky gorge or as the locals call it Chon-Ak-Suu gorge (Sergey Shik / Shutterstock.com)

On day 3, explore the lake once again and take advantage of the picnicking opportunities. Check out from your accommodation in Cholpon-Ata and travel to Karakol. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, the city is known for its stunning view of the lake and Tian Shan Mountains, as well as its traditional Russian houses. Along the way, you may stop for a quick visit to Grigorievskoe Gorge. You may also visit the Seven Bulls Rock Formationat Jeti-Oguz Korort, which is about 40 minutes away from Karakol.

Staying in an yurt while in Altyn-Arashan Valley is could be a very unforgetable experience (Abd. Halim Hadi / Shutterstock.com)

On your fourth day, leave Karakol for the amazing Altyn-Arashan Valley, where you will be staying overnight at a guesthouse or a traditional Yurt. No trip to Altyn-Arashan would be complete without staying in a traditional Yurt camp, traditional tents made of felt and well insulated. Aside from the yurt stay, swimming at the natural hot springs Altyn-Arashan is another must do in the area. To get to Altyn-Arashan Valley, take the marshrutka #350 to Ak-Suu Village. Make sure to tell the driver to drop you off at the start of the trail to Altyn-Arashan.

On day 5, make your way back to Bishkek or continue your adventure to Osh, the 3,000 year old city known as the midpoint of the ancient Silk Route. Since you came all the way from Bishkek to Karakol, why not take this opportunity to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osh(Sulayman Mountain)? If you decide, however, to return to Bishkek, then you can take one of the marshrutka from the town of Karakol.

The Sulayman Mountain (also known as Taht-I-Suleiman, Sulayman Rock or Sulayman Throne) is the only World Heritage Site located in Kyrgyzstan. The site hosts the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex Sulayman that was built during the Soviet era, dedicated to archaeological findings from the area and its history (Chubykin Arkady / Shutterstock.com)

Have you been to Lake Issyk-Kul or anywhere else in Kyrgyzstan? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/lake-issyk-kul-kyrgyzstan-5-days/feed/03 days in Zhangye and the Rainbow Mountains of Chinahttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-zhangye-rainbow-mountains-china/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-zhangye-rainbow-mountains-china/#respondThu, 14 Sep 2017 18:44:36 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4279Located near China – Mongolia Border, Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is known for its rolling mountains with rainbow colors. Once part of the ancient trade port on the Silk Road, the city of Zhangye is rich with awe-inspiring natural scenery that look like they’ve been taken out of fairy tales. It also boasts several...

]]>Located near China – Mongolia Border, Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park is known for its rolling mountains with rainbow colors. Once part of the ancient trade port on the Silk Road, the city of Zhangye is rich with awe-inspiring natural scenery that look like they’ve been taken out of fairy tales. It also boasts several historic sites where you can relive the rich Chinese history. Whether this is your first trip to China or you’ve been here a few times before, a 3-day adventure in Zhangye opens up tons of new and interesting things to do. The sequence of activities and attractions below are just a guide and you can definitely change it to suit your interests.

Things to consider before traveling to Zhangye ,China:

Language – Standard Chinese and Mandarin Chinese are the official languages of China. Learning the language is not necessary, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, but speaking at least some Chinese phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by locals. In Zhangye, there is a multinational population that includes ethnic minorities from countries near the border. You’ll hear dialects of Mongolian, Kazak, Tibetan, and many others.

Currency exchange – Chinese Yuan (also known as Renminbi) is the official currency of China. Exchanging money is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, malls, local banks, and money changers throughout Zhangye. ATMs are plentiful, all accepting international credit cards and debit cards, so it’s easy to withdraw your money in CNY. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels.

When to visit – The best times to visit the park is from July to September. During summer time, you’ll get the best amount of sunlight in the mountains, which will reveal its vibrant rainbow colors. A visit in early winter is another great opportunity, as the Rainbow Mountains will get a mixture of snow.

Getting there – Zhangye is located in northwestern China’s Gansu Province. Although the geographical location of the city is remote, there are plenty of ways to get there. The simplest way to get there is via Lanzhou. Traveling by air is possible via the Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport, which is connected with most major cities in China. By train, you can travel to Lanzhou Railway Station and transfer to a high-speed direct train to Zhangye Railway Station. For train schedule and routes, you may visit www.chinatrainguide.com.

Where to stay – There are many types of holiday accommodation in China, whether you’re looking for luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like youth hostels and bed and breakfast. In Zhangye, most hotels/hostels options are located in Zhangye downtown, which provides easy access to most attractions and to get more hotel options.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in Zhangye and the Rainbow Mountains of China

Day 0: Arrival in Lanzhou; En route to Zhangye

Assuming you have taken a morning or afternoon flight to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport from any major cities in China, then you won’t be able to explore yet. Take a high-speed direct train to Zhangye Railway Station. Travel time is approximately 3 hours and one way fare is about 150 CHY (22 USD). Then, make your way to your chosen accommodation in Zhangye downtown. Have dinner at one of the local restaurants then get a good night sleep so you have energy for a whole day of adventure the next day.

Day 1: Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park

Anyone who have ever visited Zhangye will probably tell you how surreal the rainbow mountain is. On your first day, embark on a trip to the stunning Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park also known as the Rainbow Mountains. Considered one of the most beautiful places in China, the national park is famous for its colorful Danxia landform and fascinating multicolored mountain folds.

The Rainbow Mountains are part of the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park (HelloRF Zcool / Shutterstock.com)

You can either do this trip on your own (DIY style) or join a guided offered by most hotels in downtown. If this is your first time in China, joining a guided tour is recommended. There are plenty of tour groups offered online which normally includes English-speaking guide, traditional Chinese lunch, entrance fees, transportation and driver. Tour normally starts at 9 in the morning. By DIY, you can take a bus from Zhangye West Bus Station, which goes directly to the park (one-way bus fare costs 10 CNY). Please note, the last public bus leaves the park at around 6:30 PM, so you have to be back on time! Entrance fee to the park is about 75 CNY.

Whichever of two given alternatives, this trip will allow you to see Zhangye’s most famous scenic attractions. It is best, however, to stay in the park until 8:00 PM, so you’ll see the best colors of the mountains. At sunset, there will be less clouds to cover the park, and there will be a mix of light and shadows.

If you can’t get enough of the Rainbow Mountains, then you are free to go back on day 2 for sunrise or sunset. You may also check out the other stunning attractions in Zhangye like Biandukou, a pass in the Qilian Mountains known for its vast expanse of yellow rapeseed flowers from the months of July to August. The opportunity for incredible photographs is endless during this tour, so frequent stops are recommended for visitors to enjoy the landscape.

Rapeseed flowers in Qilian Mountains (beibaoke / Shutterstock.com)

Day 3: Zhangye – Lanzhou

On your last day, leave before dawn and wait for the sun of the new day to appear on the horizon in Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. Waiting for the sunrise is probably one of the most fascinating experiences you could get in Zhangye Then, after having a filling breakfast, your final day in the city can be spent on last-minute shopping and seeing those attractions that you haven’t yet had time for. Head to Zhangye Railway Station in time for your train back to Lanzhou.

Have you been to Zhangyeor anywhere else in China? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-zhangye-rainbow-mountains-china/feed/0Up North: 3 days in Sapa, Vietnamhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/north-3-days-sapa-vietnam/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/north-3-days-sapa-vietnam/#respondMon, 11 Sep 2017 10:31:38 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4271Vietnam is a vast, beautiful and diverse country. Located in northwestern Vietnam is Sapa, known for its landscape of terraced rice fields that look like from the pages of a fairy tale book. The town’s scenery is awe-inspiring that once you set foot in its lands, you will feel you have traveled to a completely...

]]>Vietnam is a vast, beautiful and diverse country. Located in northwestern Vietnam is Sapa, known for its landscape of terraced rice fields that look like from the pages of a fairy tale book. The town’s scenery is awe-inspiring that once you set foot in its lands, you will feel you have traveled to a completely different world. Whether this is your first trip to Vietnam or you’ve been here a few times before, a 3-day adventure in Sapa opens up tons of new and interesting things to do. The sequence of activities and attractions below are just a guide and you can definitely change it to suit your interests.

Things to consider before traveling to Sapa, Vietnam:

Language – Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. About 10% of the people can speak fluent English, mostly for business purposes. Most people in the town of Sapa can understand and speak a decent level of English, so you can absolutely get by without speaking Vietnamese language. However, not all people can speak English so learning a few basic Vietnamese words and phrases is recommended. Just like in other countries, speaking at least some Vietnamese phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by the locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs can be found in Airport, most tourist centers and shopping malls across the country. Exchanging money in Sapa is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. International credit cards are widely accepted in upscale establishments but keep in mind that most small businesses, especially stores and restaurants may not accept them. If you plan to withdraw cash in Sapa, please note that there are currently 4 ATMs along Cau May Street; other ATMs are located at the lakeside.

The đồng (/ˈdɒŋ/; Vietnamese pronunciation: [ɗôŋm]) (sign: ₫; code: VND) has been the currency of Vietnam since May 3, 1978 (mediavn / Bigstockphoto.com)

Safety – Sapa is a safe town to travel in. Scam is the most common problem in tourists’ areas and remains the number one source of complaints from foreign visitors. Although scam is not as common as the incidence in major cities, you will encounter many touts on the streets that will force you to buy something in an aggressive or bold manner. You have to say no to them if you don’t plan to buy, otherwise they will follow you until you purchase something. If you ever find yourself in Sapa or other major Vietnamese cities, you have to remember that not every Vietnamese person you meet is out to scam you. Do your research, keep all your wits about you and always ask for personal recommendations from other travelers.

Getting around – Getting around in Sapa is fairly easy. The town is quite small so you can easily explore by walking or renting a motorbike. Public transportation is easy to get used to and is budget friendly. Xe Om (motorcycle taxi) is one of the most famous ways to get around Sapa. Make sure to negotiate the fare before hopping on the motorcycle. Also, always carry a map (paper maps or digital maps on your smartphone), the name of your destination written down in Vietnamese and small bills for payment. If you prefer this mode of transport, make sure to ask your hotel receptionist for estimates. If you want to learn more about getting around in Sapa, try to use Couchsurfing and seek other travelers’ suggestions. There are also plenty of expats living in Sala and the northern Vietnam, so they can probably show you around when you arrive.

Trekking the villages – Sapa Town is the most famous jumping-off point for trekking the Muong Hoa Valley, Phang Xi Pang peak and and other tiny hill-tribe villages. For first time visitors, it is recommended to hire a Vietnamese trekking guide from a reputable travel agency. Also, trekking permits are required and can be obtained directly from the Tourist Information Center in downtown. If you avail a trekking tour, the permit is most likely included in the tour package. Although Sala Mountain Trek can be done DIY-style, you can also join a Small Group Hiking Tour to help boost Vietnam’s tourism industry.

Where to stay – There are many types of holiday accommodation in northwestern Vietnam. Most luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like youth hostels and bed and breakfast are located in the downtown area of Sapa. This area provides easy access to most attractions, hotel options, restaurants, shops and travel agencies. If you’ve been to Vietnam once before, and would like to experience authentic local life, then we suggest staying in one of the local-run home-stays and guest houses. Not only that home-stays are great value for money, it’s also the best way to learn the local cultures and customs.

Detailed itinerary: Up North: 3 days in Sapa, Vietnam

Day 0

Assuming you have taken an evening train to Sapa from Hanoi, then you won’t be able to explore yet on Day 0. Travel time is approximately 9 hours. From Lao Cai Station, take a shuttle bus or taxi to Sapa Town. It takes about 1 hour to get to Sapa from the station. Please note, most people experiences motion sickness on the way to Sapa due to winding roads, so make sure to pack some anti-motion sickness medication. Alternatively, you can book a sleeper bus from Hanoi going directly to Sapa Station.

View of Sapa (melis / Shutterstock.com)

Day 1

Your adventure in Sapa starts today. Wake up to a delicious breakfast in your private room. You may also try local Vietnamese restaurants that serve local rice noodles. After breakfast, you may proceed with your tour. There’s no better way to get acquainted with the town than visiting the Bac Ha Market, which is held every Sunday and is one of the biggest minority peoples market in Vietnam. You’ll witness the local people trade their livestock and sell their wide variety of goods. This market is a relevant and educational stop to create basic understanding of Sapa’s history and cultural heritage.

After you market tour, hire or rent a motorbike, or join a group to Thac Bac, known as the Silver Waterfalls. The ascent to the base of the waterfalls is about 2 kilometers, which will allow you to view stunning landscapes. Thac Bac, the highest waterfall in Vietnam, features a 300 meter drop. From the waterfalls, continue your trek to the starting point of your descent to Love Waterfall and Golden Stream.

Thac Bac Waterfall (paikong / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2 and 3

Start your second day early at the Cat Cat Village, famous for its sunrise and sunset views of the Muong Hoa Valley and the other mountains near Sapa. Located just 1 kilometer from downtown Sapa, the village looks exquisite with the natural landscape of the mountains with morning rays and fog. It’s best to book a motorcycle in advance. If you would like to take time marveling at the views then you can opt to walk down back to town. You may also check out the Cat Cat Waterfall if you still have time before your 2-day trek through Lao Chai and Y Linh Ho Villages.

View of Cat Cat Village (melis / Shutterstock.com)

In 2 days, you would be able access the stunning viewpoints of the Sapa mountains, visit local villages, pass through forests and see the famous peaks. The trek does not really require a local guide. If you are a first time visitor, joining a small group tour is recommended. You may also enjoy a private trek by hiring a local guide at the Tourist Information Office. Before you sign up for this, make sure to assess yourself because this activity is physically demanding. Make sure to wear sturdy pair of sandals. Bring a head lamp, waterproof bag for your gadgets, waterproof gear, some snacks and water.

This is the end of our 3-day suggested itinerary. The sequence of activities and attractions above are just a guide and you can definitely change it to suit your interests. Travel to Vietnam when you are ready because it is definitely not for everyone. Go with your eyes open and experience the charm of this country.

Have you been to Sapa or anywhere else in Vietnam? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/north-3-days-sapa-vietnam/feed/03 days in the sleepy city of Kampot, Cambodiahttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-kampot-cambodia/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-kampot-cambodia/#respondSat, 09 Sep 2017 18:50:32 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4260Siem Reap definitely gets more attention from the millennial, but southern Cambodia deserves a little recognition as well. Kampot, a small, sleepy town known for its salt fields and pepper plantations, is a quaint little town that you can got to for a short break from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. This 3-day...

]]>Siem Reap definitely gets more attention from the millennial, but southern Cambodia deserves a little recognition as well. Kampot, a small, sleepy town known for its salt fields and pepper plantations, is a quaint little town that you can got to for a short break from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. This 3-day suggested itinerary will lead you to Kampot’s best destinations and will help you make the most of your trip. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs.

Things to consider before traveling to Kampot, Cambodia:

Language – The official language of Cambodia is Khmer (Cambodian), which is spoken by majority of the population. Most Khmer people speak a decent level of English, so you can absolutely get by without speaking Khmer language. However, not all people in Cambodia can speak English so learning a few basic Khmer words and phrases is recommended. Just like in other countries, speaking at least some Khmer phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by the locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). ATMs can be found in airport, most tourist centers and local banks across the country. Exchanging money in Kampot is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. It’s also good to know that all establishments accept US dollars. International credit cards are widely accepted, though small businesses, especially stores and restaurants may not accept them.

Cambodian riel (Michael Leslie / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Cambodia. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Every traveler, especially solo female travelers, should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies, sexual assault and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists. Driving on your own is not recommended because some roads are poorly maintained and locals have little regard for traffic regulations.

Where to stay – Cambodia has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. In Kampot, there are plenty of budget hotels, backpacker hostels and guesthouses. If you want a a luxurious hotel, then you might not get it in the city as there are really no high-end hotels in Kampot. You will, however, find plenty of wooden bungalows, which will give you riverside relaxation, or something a little closer to nature.

Getting around – Getting around Kampot is very easy. Transportation options include boats, small minivans (tuk-tuks), taxis, motorbike sidecar taxis (Săhm·lór), rental cars and motorbike. Although renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to get around, we do not recommend it to non-experienced drivers. Foreigners are also often the targets of police asking for small bribes.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in the sleepy city of Kampot, Cambodia

Day 1

Your adventure in Kampot starts today. Wake up to a delicious breakfast in your private room. You may also try local Khmer restaurants that serve local rice noodles. After breakfast, you may proceed with your tour. There’s no better way to get acquainted with the town than visiting the La Plantation. The Cambodian Kampot Pepper is high quality, thus, it once became a household name in France. In the early 20th century, Kampot Pepper became the most famous exports in Cambodia until it was destroyed by the Khmer Rouge. Following the Vietnamese liberation, most farmers tried to revive Cambodia’s pepper industry by going back to their fields. Now, the region produces different varieties of pepper including red pepper, black pepper, white pepper, green pepper and bird pepper.

Pepper farming in Kampot (Maurizio Biso / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2

View from the roof of abandoned hotel ‘Bokor Palace’ to the ‘Ghost town’ Bokor Hill station near the town of Kampot. Cambodia (Ilia Torlin / Shutterstock.com)

On day 2, go on one of the most exciting trips out of Kampot by joining a tour of Bokor National Park. Here, you will find the Bokor Hill Station, which is home to a collection of abandoned French colonial buildings including the grand Bokor Palace Hotel, a catholic church, a post office, and others. Built in the 1920s, the station is used by the colonial French settlers as a resort. Now, the station is in a state of arrested decay, which gets quite eerie in the fog during rainy season. For first time visitors, we recommend joining a group so you will know the historical relevance of the station. Also, most tours include Sunset Firefly River Cruise.

Abandoned hotel ‘Bokor Palace’ in ghost town Bokor Hill station near the town of Kampot (Ilia Torlin / Shutterstock.com)

Day 3

Wake up very early in the morning just in time for the sunrise. Make your way to the Salt Fields of Kampot and wait for the rising sun to reflect in the salt fields flooded by sea water. Just like pepper, Kampot is also famous for its salt production. Here, you’ll witness the workers collect and pile up the salt crystals in the warehouses. You’ll also see how the white salt crystals are formed under the sun.

A man harvesting salt on the field of Kampot (Phuong D. Nguyen / Shutterstock.com)

Unless breakfast is included in the price of your accommodation, start your day at one of the city’s local restaurants. A typical breakfast in Cambodia includes num banh chok (Khmer noodles dish made from fresh rice noodles with curry), kuy teav (a Chinese noodle soup) or Cambodian version of doughnuts and baguettes.

After breakfast, dive deeper into local experience by visiting other attractions you might have missed like the Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, the only Buddhist cave temple in Cambodia. If you don’t want to go far from town, then you may try water activities in the river, enjoy a relaxing spa experience, or sun-bathe in the Arcadia Waterpark.

Phnom Chhnork cave shrine, near Kampot (ckchiu / Shutterstock.com)

Kampot is a great add-on to any trip to the famous ruins in Siem Reap, beach holiday in Sihanoukville or even a short change of scenery if you are exploring Vietnam.

Have you been to Kampot or anywhere else in Cambodia? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-kampot-cambodia/feed/07 days in dreamy Northern Moroccohttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/7-days-dreamy-northern-morocco/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/7-days-dreamy-northern-morocco/#respondFri, 08 Sep 2017 12:36:54 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4243Northern Morocco teems with cultural and natural wonders but it is so vast that in 1 week, you will only be able to explore a small part of it. However, with careful planning and prioritizing, you will be able to maximize your time and see some of the major attractions. This 7-day itinerary is for...

]]>Northern Morocco teems with cultural and natural wonders but it is so vast that in 1 week, you will only be able to explore a small part of it. However, with careful planning and prioritizing, you will be able to maximize your time and see some of the major attractions. This 7-day itinerary is for those who are short on time, but still want to get a good taste of what Northern Morocco has to offer in one week or less.

Things to consider before traveling to Northern Morocco:

Language – Moroccan Arabic and Berber are the most widely spoken languages in Morocco. Their second language is French and in cities like Tangier and Chefchaouen they are fluent in Spanish due to their proximity to Spain. English is emerging, especially in major cities, so you can get by without learning the language. However, speaking at least some Moroccan Arabic or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan dirham. Currency can be changed at banks, Bureau de Change at the airport, authorized money changers and some hotels. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels in major cities. You may also use debit cards, but watch out for ATM fees and foreign transaction fees, which can be very high per transaction.

Clothing – Unlike any other Muslim countries, Morocco has no practical rules and regulation when it comes to clothing due to their close proximity to Europe. However, it is advisable not to show too much skin. Modest dress is best for men and women. For women, avoid revealing clothes so you won’t get unwanted attention. Jeans and shorts not higher than mid-calf, knee-length skirts partnered with T-shirts or blouse are acceptable. For men, loose cotton shirts, T-shirts and pants are okay. Lastly, while visiting places of worship, you should be fully clothed.

Getting there – The best option if you are flying from outside Morocco and Europe is to book a flight that arrives early in Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), which is located approximately 30 minutes south of Casablanca. It is relatively easy to travel from Casablanca to Northern Morocco; you can take a bus, ride a train or take a quick flight if you are coming directly from Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport.

Accommodation – There are many types of holiday accommodation in Marrakech, from luxury hotels and picturesque B&Bs (riads) to cheaper accommodation like hostels. Riads are the most common type of accommodation because of its unique architecture and decoration promising a one of a kind Moroccan experience. Most riads in Marrakech are centrally located near Souks and Medina so it gives you better access to tourist attraction and food choices. Price starts at 40 USD, which typically includes breakfast.

Detailed itinerary: 7 days in dreamy Northern Morocco

Day 1: Casablanca

Your adventure in Casablanca starts today! Schedule a flight that will arrive early in Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), which is located approximately 30 minutes south of Casablanca. Travel time by train is approximately 30 minutes and one way fare is 30 Moroccan dirhams (around 3 USD). Check into your preferred accommodation and minimize your jet lag by spending a lot of time out in the sunlight so your body can adapt to its new surroundings. If your flight gets in early enough, head to a nearest restaurant or cafe for a quick breakfast. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will do a lot of walking for today.

Come to grips with Casablanca’s history and culture by taking a stroll through Marche Central de Casablanca, the city’s main market situated along Mohammed V Boulevard. The market has plenty of interesting stalls selling fresh food, craft ware, leather goods, handmade jewelry and Moroccan-style souvenirs. After your tour, grab some authentic Moroccan lunch at one of the hole-in-the-wall restaurants in the market.

After lunch, experience the glories of Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques which took 6 years to complete and over 6,000 craftsmen to build. Perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, King Hassan II ordered the mosque to be built along the seafront as a translation of the Koranic verse “The throne of God was on the water.” To see the mosque’s extravagant interior, guided tours are available and might be a great choice for tourists wishing to know a little bit more about the mosque.

Hassan II Mosque or Grande Mosquée Hassan II is a mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. It is the largest mosque in Morocco and the 13th largest in the world. Its minaret is the world’s tallest at 210 meters (689 ft) (Moskwa / Bigstockphoto.com)

Later this afternoon, make your way to the souks of the Old Medina. The souks are literal labyrinth of shops selling everything: bags, scarves, baskets, carpets, shoes, lamps, perfumes, clothes, socks, fruit, crafts and a bunch of spices you never know exist. Then, make your way to the United Nations Place andMohammed V Square, where you can admire some of the best structures with Art Deco style architecture. After dinner, head back to your chosen riad / hotel and sleep early for you early morning flight.

A souk in Casablanca’s Old Medina (Rafal Cichawa / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2: Tangier

On day 2, take an early morning flight from Casablanca to Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG). Direct flights to Tangier are expensive, especially if not booked ahead of time. From the airport, hail a cab to the city center. The airport is located 15 kilometers from the center of Tangier and travel time is about 30 minutes. If you want to save some dough or if you want to enjoy the countryside sceneries, then take a direct train instead. Travel time is about 5 hours and one way fare is about 100 to 200 dirhams (10 to 20 USD).

Tangier, known for its colonial-era neighborhoods and centuries old Moorish medinas, remains to be a favorite of expatriates and travelers. Since you only have 2 days in the city, it can be tough to whittle down the must-sees. So after arrival, check in early and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants where locals go frequently. The best way to get an introduction to this Northern Moroccan port city is to check out the downtown scene.

There’s no better way to get to know the city than visiting Kasbah, the old citadel. Lines with Moorish-modern designed stores and shops selling artisanal goods, Kasbah is a haven for visitors who love shopping and people watching. After this, stroll along the Boulevard Pasteur, also known as Le Boulevard.

End your day at Café Hafa (Marchan Tanger). This is a perfect place for sunset viewing where you can get a stunning panoramic view of the Bay of Tangier and Spain. After your tour, make your way back to your hotel and get a good night sleep so you have energy for a whole day of adventure the next day.

Don’t miss to visit Cafe Hafa (Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock.com)

Day 3: Tangier

No trip to Tangier would be complete without going on a half-day trip to the Hercules Cave. It is believed that Hercules founded Tangier and he stayed in this cave before his 11th labor (the Apples of the Hesperides).

The Hercules Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions near Tangier in Northern Morocco (Pierre-Yves Babelon / Shutterstock.com)

In the afternoon, visit the other attractions in the city that you might have missed like the Grand Mosque of Tangier. The most distinctive characteristic of the Grand Mosque is its white-and-green-tiled minaret. The design of the mosque displays strong Moorish influences and the walls and columns of the interior are delicately carved with intricate patterns. Although non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, the exterior is worth a visit.

Afternoon tea break is a great and relaxing thing to do in Tangier. Drink mint tea at one of the hole in the wall cafes in Tangier like Café Baba (Rue Zaitouni), where the Rolling Stones used to hang out. Perched above Tangier’s medina, the café also offers stunning view of the city and the bay.

Enjoy dinner at Le Saveur De Poisson (2 Escalier Waller), known for its fresh seafood offerings. Check out from your accommodation, and then make your way to your next destination, Chefchaouen. Since there is no direct train service from Tangier to Chefchaouen, take a train to Souk El Arba. From there, take a bus to Chefchaouen. Make sure to research about the bus schedules. Alternatively, you can hire a private cab if you’re travelling with friends or family.

Day 4: Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen, known for its houses and buildings in shades of blue, is one of the most famous cities in Northern Morocco. Because of its all-blue town against the gorgeous mountain backdrop, tourists flock here any time of the year.

A view of a street in Chefchaouen Old Medina (Rima Igoseva / Shutterstock.com)

Enjoy a meal at Alladin Restaurant (17 Rue Targi), known for its delicious Moroccan dishes and the best panoramic view of Chefchaouen. Make sure to try their Moroccan salad and soup, shrimp tagine, chicken pastille, and tea.

Later this afternoon, make your way to the souks of the Old Medina. Shopping in Chefchaouen is more budget friendly compared to other cities in Morocco. So if you want to horde on those traditional Moroccan souvenirs and spices, shop here!

After a whole day of adventure, go to a hammam (traditional Moroccan bath) for a relaxing bath experience. Ask your hotel receptionist on where to find a local hammam and do not forget to bring your own toiletries to the bathhouse.

Day 5: Chefchaouen

On day 5, visit the dramatic and alluring Cascades d’Akchour, which consist of upper and lower waterfalls. The hike up to the lower falls would take roughly one hour, and another 2 hours for the upper falls. You may combine this trek with the Bridge of God (Le Pont de Dieu), which is a stunning natural bridge. If you will include the bridge to this trip, it would approximately take 5 to 6 hours round trip.

Cascades d’Akchour (Julian Schaldach / Shutterstock.com)

With time remaining, go for a stroll through the New and Old Medina. In the evening, do not miss to try the traditional bars and stand at the bar while eating spicy sardines and drinking lager beer. Visitors will surely appreciate Chefchaouen’s unpretentious bar scene and vibrant nightlife.

Day 6: Fes

Your adventure in Fes starts today! Depending on your time of arrival, you can both take it easy and soak up the atmosphere in Fes, or you can begin your tour of its famous attractions. Check into your preferred accommodation and hit one of the many restaurants in the city. Then, avail a half-day tour of Fes’s fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys. Visit some of the historic attractions of the city like Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and university, one of the many Medersas (Koranic schools) and Batha Palace. In the afternoon, explore the souks of Fes and learn about how local crafts are made. Some of the best buys in Fes are leather wear, pottery, wood carvings, carpets and handicrafts.

On day 7, after having a filling breakfast, set out for the day to visit Ain Nokbi, the Potters’ Quarter of Fes. Northern Morocco, particularly Fes, is famous for its traditional arts and crafts. Here in the pottery village, you will be able to see first-hand the process to create pottery. You may also visit the Chouara Tannery, the largest ancient leather tannery in Fes. Make sure to head up to the terrace overlooking the tannery pits.

Chouara Tannery, Fes (rechitansorin / Bigstockphoto.com)

Have you been to Northern Morocco or anywhere else in Morocco? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/7-days-dreamy-northern-morocco/feed/0What to do in Kuala Lumpur… if the belly takes over the tourist in youhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/kuala-lumpur-belly-takes-over/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/kuala-lumpur-belly-takes-over/#respondTue, 05 Sep 2017 14:49:47 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4233Kuala Lumpur is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern, and dizzying contradictions. And the best way to experience it is through its local cuisine. Most visitors might not know it but the city offers inexplicable variety of food worth trying. Satisfy your hunger pangs with our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary of Kuala Lumpur, while learning...

]]>Kuala Lumpur is a mesmerizing blend of traditional and modern, and dizzying contradictions. And the best way to experience it is through its local cuisine. Most visitors might not know it but the city offers inexplicable variety of food worth trying. Satisfy your hunger pangs with our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary of Kuala Lumpur, while learning Malaysia’s history and cultural heritage. If this is your first time in the city, you may fine tune this itinerary to include some tourist attractions in between the suggested foodie destinations.

Things to consider before traveling to Kuala Lumpur:

Language – Bahasa Melayu (Malay) is the national and official language of Malaysia. English is taught in schools and is widely used in Malaysian cities, so do not worry about not knowing local phrases or words. It is, however, recommended to learn some Malay if you are heading towards rural areas.

Money and costs – Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is the official currency of Malaysia. Exchanging money is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, malls, local banks, and money changers throughout Kuala Lumpur. ATMs are plentiful, all accepting international credit cards and debit cards, so it’s easy to withdraw your money in Ringgit. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels.

Malaysian Ringgit (ThamKC / Bigstockphoto.com)

Etiquette – Despite being open to foreign influences, Malaysia remains a fairly conservative nation. Handshakes are common when meeting someone. Avoid touching someone’s head as the head is considered sacred in eastern culture. When visiting mosques and temples, it is recommended to dress modestly. Removing your shoes is also required before entering. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter a mosque during prayer time although it is okay to stand outside and look around. Chinese and Hindu temples are open to visitors, but it is also required to remove your shoes.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Malaysia. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Although most visits are trouble free, remain vigilant because petty crimes like pick pocketing, snatch and grab, and theft do occur.

Where to stay– There are 3 main areas of Kuala Lumpur that makes great places to stay for tourists – Buking Bintang, KLCC and Chinatown. Bukit Bintang is where you will find the trendiest shopping and entertainment districts, as well as many options of budget to luxury accommodation. KLCC, on the other hand, is the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where you will find some of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia like the Petronas Tower. It is a good area for shopping, sightseeing and nightlife. Rooftop bars and fine-dining restaurants are also aplenty in this area. Chinatown, located in Petaling Street, is great for budget travelers and for people who want to stay in a historical area. This area is well-known for its hawker food and dirt-cheap goods.

Getting around– Kuala Lumpur is a busy city and traffic can be terrible, but with an extensive network of Light Rail Transit, Monorail, buses, and taxis, getting around this modern city is easy. KL Sentral, the main transportation hub of Kuala Lumpur, offers connection to and from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) with the service of KLIA Expres and KLIA Transit. Bus connections to and from the airport, like the Skybus, are also available. Light Rail Transit and KTM Komuter trains serves the city and the suburbs.

Detailed day by day: What to do in Kuala Lumpur… if the belly takes over the tourist in you

Day 1

Start the day off exploring the areas showcasing Kuala Lumpur’s cultural mix. But before that, grab some breakfast. Obviously, the first meal of every trip should be solid. So, we recommend some Nasi Lemak, the de facto national dish of Malaysia. It is the centerpiece of any good Malaysian breakfast, which consists of rice cooked in coconut oil and garnished with hard boiled eggs, anchovies, roasted peanuts, cucumbers and succulent savory samba sauce.

Nasi Lemak is a favorite dish in Malaysia. Loved by all Malaysian and tourist as well (adly adly / Shutterstock.com)

After breakfast, head to Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia. Founded in 1873, the temple was dedicated to Mariamman, also known as Parvati, the South Indian mother goddess. Then travel to the Islamic Arts Museum, home to one of best collections of Islamic decorative arts in the world. From there, make your way to Thean Hou Temple, a famous Chinese temple, dedicated to Thean Hou, the heavenly queen.

For lunch, get some Banana Leaf Rice, originally a South Indian speciality that became a Malaysian one. This dish is made from steamed white rice wrapped in a large piece of fresh banana leaf with addition of fried chicken or friend fish. It is complemented by various other ingredients like pickles, vegetables and fried papadum crackers. Then, a generous amount of aromatic curry will be ladled over the rice. Some of the best restaurants to try this dish are Devi’s Corner in Jalan Telawi, Moorthy’s Martha Indian Rice in Jalan Vivekananda and Raj’s Banana Leaf in Jalan Telawi.

In the late afternoon check out Chinatown at Petaling Street where you can go shopping. You may also check out several Chinese and Indian Temples in this area. Then, grab some late afternoon snack at Chelo’s Appam Stall, known for their delicious appam (coconut milk pancakes).

For dinner, head to Jalan Alor in Bukit Bintangfor some fantastic Malay-Chinese cuisine. There are mostly Chinese restaurants in this unassuming street, where you can sit down on plastic stools along the pavement. Some of the must try foods are oyster omelette, roast lamb, dimsum, deep fried durian, and barbecued satay and scallops. Another must try is Lok Lok. It is a type of communal hot pot where the plates with various ingredients skewered on sticks are placed around a central pot of boiling water. If you still have the energy for cocktails, head to the Sky Bar on the top floor of Traders Hotel.

Day 2

On your second day, rise early to get to the Batu Caves, just north of the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. Set on a massive limestone hill, Batu Caves is an iconic and popular tourist attraction in Selangor. You will be greeted by a 43 meter-tall golden statue of Lord Murugan, before you climb the 272 steps up into the shrine. Inside, there is a Hindu Shrine lined with different deities. Though it is easy to get around by yourself, availing a tour of the Batu Caves is recommended to learn its history and significance.

One of the culinary influences of Malaysia is South Indian Cuisine. So for lunch, after your visit to the Batu Caves, make your way to Dhivya’s Cafe Restaurant. This restaurant offers a variety of traditional Indian food like roti, banana leaf rice, chapati and samosa.

In the afternoon, make your way to Merdeka Square (Independence Square or Dataran Merdeka). From here, head to Bintang Walk for some shopping. If your accommodation is nowhere near Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC), then you can go for dinner in this area. There are plenty of things you can do here, from shopping to dining. You can also get an amazing view of the city from Petronas Tower.

Petronas Towers on in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia .Petronas Towers also known as Menara Petronas were the tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004 (Southtownboy / Bigstockphoto.com)

When temperature soars in Kuala Lumpur, we can’t think of any other summer treats than Cendol. It is a popular shaved ice dessert topped with with red bean, grass jelly strands, palm sugar syrup, coconut milk, creamed corn and and green cendol strands. Get it at Grandmama’s at Pavilion Kl, Uncle Cendol at Brem Mall or Baba Low’s 486 at Jalan Kurau.

Malay cendor (ayarx oren / Shutterstock.com)

It’s dinner time! Our suggestion is Hokkien Mee, black-colored charcoal-fried noodles. This aromatic and flavorful noodle dish is another favorite of the KLites, and can be found almost anywhere in the city. Along with a delectable soup base, Hokkien Mee’s ingredients are prawns or pork, bean sprouts, noodles and half boiled egg. Hawker stalls also allow customers to put various add-on toppings like pork ribs, pork legs, pork belly and fish balls. The best places to try this dish are Kim Lian Kee at KL Chinatown, Lian Bee still at KL Chinatown, Setapak Teochew at Setapak and Sentul Ah Yap at Sentul.

Day 3

For your final day in Kuala Lumpur, get a one last whirl through the city to take in other attractions that you might have missed. For a wide range and reasonably priced locally made handicrafts, you can explore the Central Market. This charming old art deco market building has souvenirs and gifts of different colors, variety and quality. There are also a number of eating places inside for a much needed pit-stop between shops.

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Central Market is a cultural heritage site with restored art deco facade offering shopping and eateries (Nalidsa / Shutterstock.com)

If you’ve got a few hours to spare before departure, then you may consider joining a traditional cooking class, wherein you will learn how to cook the most popular Malaysian dishes and know its history and origin. You will also be introduced to traditional Malay flavors and learn the simplest way to cook them. There are plenty of tours offered online, so make sure to read reviews first before you make your reservation. LaZat Malaysian Cooking Class, Sarang Cookery and Jen’s Homegrown Cooking Academy offer some of the best cooking classes in Kuala Lumpur based on TripAdvisor reviews.

Have you been to Kuala Lumpur, Melaka or anywhere else in Malaysia? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: An unidentified YOUNG woman sells traditional Chinese dumplings in Jalan Alor street famous with budget restaurants of various cuisines (withGod / Shutterstock.com)

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/kuala-lumpur-belly-takes-over/feed/0Best of Belfast, Northern Ireland in 3 dayshttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-belfast-northern-ireland-3-days/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-belfast-northern-ireland-3-days/#respondThu, 31 Aug 2017 15:03:18 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4228Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and is said to be the birthplace of Titanic. It’s a great place to explore attractions such as Victorian structures, Titanic Quarter, and the WWI warship that became a floating museum. Known for its shipbuilding industry, Belfast is also full of historical attractions, ancient churches and major monuments. It’s a...

]]>Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and is said to be the birthplace of Titanic. It’s a great place to explore attractions such as Victorian structures, Titanic Quarter, and the WWI warship that became a floating museum. Known for its shipbuilding industry, Belfast is also full of historical attractions, ancient churches and major monuments. It’s a long way to come for just 3 days, but if that’s all you can spare, then this 3-day suggested itinerary will be very useful. There are of course numerous other destinations in this city so you might want to mix and match the suggestions below to create your own itinerary.

Things to know before traveling to Belfast:

Language – English and Irish are the two official languages of Northern Ireland. Since Northern Ireland has slowly turned into a multi-cultural society, which is now clearly visible almost everywhere, you’ll often hear people on the street, shops and restaurants speaking just about anything from Scots (known as Ulster Scots) to Chinese to Arabic.

Currency exchange – The official currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound Sterling, which is the same currency used in Wales, Scotland, and England. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and Bureau de Change Kiosks which are located in the airports and city centers. It is also good to know that there are plentiful of ATMs available throughout the country so you will surely have easy access to cash. If you plan to use your credit card in Belfast or other parts of the United Kingdom, check with your bank if they have a “chip and pin” or “chip and signature” credit card. The United Kingdom uses the “chip and pin” for added security.

Etiquette – The Irish are modest, tolerant and independent people. They are reserved and they value privacy. Their country doesn’t seem very foreign to many visitors but it’s important to remember some do’s and dont’s to enjoy a faux pas free journey. As a visitor, you are expected to behave politely and dress appropriately. On meeting, ensure an eye contact with a firm handshake with all attendees. Do not forget to say please and thank you when out and about.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Northern Ireland. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Observe the same precautions with your personal safety and health as you would in any other country. Although most visits are trouble free, remain vigilant because petty crimes like pick pocketing and theft do occur. For medical emergencies, fire and police services, dial 999.

Where to stay – There are many types of holiday accommodation in Belfast, from luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like youth hostels and bed and breakfast. There are also plenty of apartment rentals if you prefer the comfort and convenience of having your own place with cooking facilities. The most frequent question from first time travelers is, “What’s the best area to stay in when visiting Belfast?” Without a doubt, the best area to stay in is the central to get easy access to most attractions and to get more hotel options. The Cathedral Quarter and Queens Quarter are also excellent neighborhoods for either a quick weekend getaway or a longer visit in the city.

Getting Around – Belfast can be easily explored on foot or on a bicycle. You can either bike on your own or you can join one of the guided biking tours offered in the city. Also, traveling using public transportation in Belfast is relatively easy as all roads are well-maintained and the public transport system is one of Europe’s finest. If you want to wander a little further from the central, then you may get around using iLink, an integrated transport smart card from Translink, which provides unlimited bus and rail travel within 3 specified zones across Northern Ireland. You can purchase daily, weekly or monthly cards to experience convenient and safe travel. For more information, you may visit their official website.

Detailed itinerary: Best of Belfast, Northern Ireland in 3 days

Day 1

Today starts your adventure in Belfast! Check into your chosen accommodation where you will be staying for three nights. Get settled and spend the morning in your hotel to rest a little. Then, set out this morning to see some of the most beautiful attractions in the city. Head to your fist destination, which is the Belfast City Hall, a Baroque Revival-style civic building located on the administrative heart of Belfast. Spend the rest of the morning at the Cathedral Quarter.

Belfast City Hall (Leonid Andronov / Bigstockphoto.com)

Reward yourself with a sumptuous lunch at one of the top-rated restaurants in Belfast such as the Holohans Pantry. After lunch, continue your historic and cultural tour of the city. Anyone interested in natural and modern history should see the Ulster Museum. Another one you should not miss is the Titanic Belfast, a maritime museum which houses some extraordinary historic and artistic relics about the RMS Titanic, the world’s most famous ship. You may to spend as much time as possible here if you would like to explore the historic Slipways and the decks of the last remaining White Star vessel, the SS Nomadic.

Titanic Belfast is a visitor attraction and a monument to Belfast’s maritime heritage on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard in the city’s Titanic Quarter where the RMS Titanic was built. It opened in 2012, a hundred years after Titanic sank (Foto VDW / Bigstockphoto.com)

In the evening, you may watch a world class theatrical performance in the Grand Opera House. For performance schedule and ticket prices, visit their official website (https://www.goh.co.uk/opera). You may also avail a guided tour of the Grand Opera House during the time when there are no performances or rehearsals. The opera house itself has a magnificent architecture with an equally interesting history. After your historic tour, make your way back to your hotel and get a good night sleep so you have energy for a whole day of adventure the next day.

Day 2

On day 2, satisfy your hunger pangs with a morning visit to St George’s Market, open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. One of the oldest attractions in Belfast, the market is the best way to experience the city’s local cuisine. Most visitors might not know it but the city offers inexplicable variety of food worth trying. You can grab some pastries and coffee while listening to live music from local bands and solo artists.

In the afternoon, join a guided tour through Crumlin Road Gaol, a former 19th century Grade A prison. Guided tours, either private or public, are required as visitors cannot walk alone in the halls. This 70-minute guided tour will take you to the execution room, hanging cell, graveyard, hospital and Governor’s office.

The Crum was one of the most secure prison in Belfast until 1996, when it was closed (Attila JANDI / Shutterstock.com)

Head back to your hotel, then to the airport in time to check in for your international flight home, or you may opt to continue traveling independently in Northern Ireland, or extend your stay in Belfast.

This is the end of our 3-day suggested itinerary. Remember, this is just a guide for planning and is in no way, shape or form, the only way to travel Belfast. There are several alternative routes of travel within the area and it will depend on your intended length of stay. Enjoy!

Have you been to Belfast? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, a popular area for nightlife with pubs and live music (Willy Barton / Shutterstock.com)

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-belfast-northern-ireland-3-days/feed/0Off the beaten path in Isaan, Thailandhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/beaten-path-isaan-thailand/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/beaten-path-isaan-thailand/#respondTue, 29 Aug 2017 14:24:35 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4211Long overlooked for Bangkok and Phuket, home of the Prasat Hin Phimai archaeological ruins and Khao Yai National Park, the Isaan Region is slowly emerging as a promising destination for travelers. With our 7-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming city and you will be introduced to its best attractions....

]]>Long overlooked for Bangkok and Phuket, home of the Prasat Hin Phimai archaeological ruins and Khao Yai National Park, the Isaan Region is slowly emerging as a promising destination for travelers. With our 7-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming city and you will be introduced to its best attractions. You can absolutely make any changes you like, to adapt the tour to your preferences. Enjoy Isaan!

Things to consider before traveling to Isaan:

Language – Thai is the official language of Thailand. In Bangkok and other main tourist destinations, some Thai can speak English, especially the young people. Although English is taught in schools, it is not widely used by the locals. It is recommended to learn some Thai if you are heading towards rural areas where you can expect that a lot of people cannot speak any English.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Thailand is the Thai baht (TBH). ATMs can be found in Airport, most tourist centers and shopping malls across the country. Exchanging money in Isaan is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. It’s also good to know that some establishments accept US dollars but do not count on it as your only payment method. International credit cards are widely accepted, though small businesses, especially stores and restaurants may not accept them.

Thai Baht currency bills (kckate16 / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Thailand. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid non-essential travel to Thailand-Myanmar border, especially the provinces of Tak and Mae Hong Son, and the Muslim-majority southernmost provinces of Thailand, like the provinces of Yala, Songkhla, Pattani and Narathiwat. If you need general travel advice, then you may contact the Tourist Authority of Thailand at 1672 (press 9 for English).

Where to stay – The Isaan Region has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. If you’ve been to Thailand once before, and would like to experience authentic local life, then we suggest staying in one of the locally run home-stays and guest houses. Not only that home-stays are great value for money, it’s also the best way to learn the local cultures and customs.

Getting to Isaan – The Isaan Region is located in the northeastern region of Thailand. Udon Thani Airport (UTH) is the main airport in the region, which is located approximately 450 km from Bangkok. There are domestic flights to and from Bangkok(Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang) and Chiang Mai. From Bangkok you can also get to Isaan by day and night buses. Depending on the bus class (VIP, 1st class or 2nd class), you can expect to pay between 18 and 30 USD each-way. If you want to experience the local trains, you may try one of the two main lines of the State Railway of Thailand. For more information, you may visit their official website (http://www.thairailways.com/road-route.northeast.html).

Getting around – Getting around Isaan is very easy. Transportation options include small minivans (tuk-tuks), local buses (songthaew), motorbike sidecar taxis (săhm·lór) and rental cars. Getting to the national parks and ancient ruins requires tuk-tuk or rental cars, so it will be cheaper if you share the costs with fellow travelers. If you want to learn more about getting around in Isaan, try to use Couchsurfing and seek other travelers’ suggestions. There are also plenty of expats living in Isaan, so they can probably show you around when you arrive.

Detailed day by day itinerary: Off the beaten path in Isaan, Thailand

Day 1: Udon Thani

Since you only have 7 days in the Isaan Region, it can be tough to whittle down the must-sees. Assuming you are coming from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station, take a train to Udon Thani Railway Station in Mak Khaeng. Udon Thani is one of the four major cities of the Isaan region. It is popular among travelers who wish to go to Vientiane, Laos for a visa run or those who wish to see the ancient capital of Luang Prabang, Laos.

From the train station, take a local bus or a tuk-tuk to get to your chosen accommodation. Rest and settle in before you start the tour. Depending on your time of arrival, you can either take it easy and soak up the atmosphere in Udon Thani or you can begin your tour of its famous attractions.

The best way to get an introduction to Udon Thani is to check out the Ban Chiang Archeological Site. This is a relevant and educational stop to create basic understanding of Northeastern Thailand’s human settlement during prehistoric times. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, the village and burial site of Ban Chiang houses thousands pf artifacts from human skeletons to pottery.

Potsherds at Ban Chiang National Museum (Mr.Alex / Shutterstock.com)

Sticking with the history theme, it is best to squeeze in a trip to Phu Phra Bat Historical Park. This is a great opportunity to enhance your cultural experience in the Isaan Region and to learn about the multi-layered trail of Hindu and Buddhist arts in and around these stunning and bizarre rock formations.

The prehistoric Cave and Stone Park of Phu Phra Bat National Park near the city of Udon Thani (amnat30 / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2: Udon Thani

On day 2, visit Phu Foi Lom Eco Park, an eco-tourism tourist destination located 40 kilometers southwest of the city center. Part of the Pan Don Pa Ko National Reserved Park, Phu Foi Lom offers numerous trails ideal for hiking and overnight camping. For nature lovers, rare flora and fauna can be spotted here as well. If you don’t want to travel far from the city, Nong Prajak Park is a great alternative. This popular recreational area is famous for its big lake surrounded by flower gardens and its famous giant inflatable rubber ducky. This is the perfect place to observe and to interact with the locals.

If your travel date is between December and the end of February, then you’re lucky just to be in time for the Red Lotus Sea. Hire and hop into a pontoon boat to the lake’s center and be surrounded by a sea of hot pink lotus flowers.

This spectacular site is home to millions of lotus flowers and appropriately named the Red Lotus Sea or Talay Bua Daeng (ideation90 / Shutterstock.com)

Another must visit in Udon Thani is the Rock Spa and Salt Fields in BanDung. You might be wondering where does salt come from? The Isaac Region is in a land-locked state so it’s not possibly from the sea, right? Well in Ban Dung, they managed to excavate salt from an underground source of salt water. Do not miss to drop by the rock spa to face of foot massages with their home made scrubs and masks made from mineral rich salt.

Day 3: Nong Khai

For your final day in Udon Thani, get a one last whirl through the city to take in other attractions that you might have missed. You may also dedicate this day with a whole day trip of Nong Khai, which is a border town on the bank of the Mekong River, located within earshot of Vientiane, Laos. Some of the attractions worth visit in the city are Sala Keoku, Sadet Market, Wat Pho Chai and Phra That Chedi.

Sala Keoku sculpture park (Mber / Shutterstock.com)

Day 4: Khon Kaen

Travel to your chosen accommodation in Khon Kaen where you will be staying for one nights before your adventure in the four beautiful National Parks in Chaiyaphum. If you’re on a tight schedule, we recommend arranging a car rental to take you directly to your hotel. For budget-conscious travelers, buses and trains are available. Regular buses depart from Udon Thani to Khon Kaen’s Bor Kor Sao Gao Bus Terminal several times per hour. Travel time is approximately 2 hours and one way bus fare is between 80 to 100 baht (about 3 USD). If you want something refreshingly traditional or if you would like to see the countryside, then taking a train is a great choice. Travel time is approximately 2 to 3 hours and one way fare is about 25 to 30 baht (less than 1 USD).

To get acquainted to Khon Kaen, visit the Day or the Night Markets, which are the best places in the city to to snap up a bargain. You can find almost everything inside the market, from Jewelry, clothing, household goods, traditional Thai clothing and tons of knock off designer clothing. Don’t forget to haggle to get the best bang for your buck. Aside from shopping, the local markets are also a food destination.

The Night Market in Khon Kaen (Akarat Phasura / Shutterstock.com)

Day 5: Khon Kaen

On day 5, wander through Khon Kaen’s main historical sites like the Phra That Kham Kaen, which is located at grounds of Wat Chetiyaphum, Tambon Ban Kham. This golden Laotian style chedi is said to be built before the founding of Khon Kaen, thus, it is highly revered among the locals.

Phra That Kham Kaen (Casper1774 Studio / Shutterstock.com)

Another temple you should not miss is the Wat Nong Wang, which is considered as the most famous temple in Khon Kaen. It consists of 9 floors with murals and mosaic depicting the culture and history of Buddhism. The temple is a great vantage point to see the Bung Kaen Nakhon Lake (Khon Kaen’s lake) and the 360 degree view of the city.

In the afternoon, visit the remaining temples in the city like the Wat Thung Setthi. This temple is also popular because of its unique architecture and design. Instead of the usual red and gold accents, the temple is colored with blue and gold. The reflecting pond with water lilies also adds stunning effects on the temple.

Wat Thung Setthi is among the most beautiful temples in Thailand (Nattawut Jaroenchai / Shutterstockcom)

Check out from your accommodation in Khon Kaen and take a bus to Chaiyaphum. The night bus leaves at 5 PM from Khon Kaen Bus Terminal. Travel time is approximately 3 hours and one way bus fare is about 100 baht (about 3 USD). Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the city and check into your preferred accommodation. Make sure to arrange your tours prior to Day 6 so you can depart very early in the morning.

On day 6, after having a filling breakfast, set out early in the morning for the Phu Laen Kha National Park, known as the Stonehenge of Thailand. This national park is dotted by dense jungles, grassy hillside and plenty of huge, bizarre boulders. Enjoying the view of the countryside from the slabs of rocks protruded from the mountain itself and the sunrise views are the main attractions in the national park. The opportunity for incredible photographs is endless during the trip, so frequent stops are recommended for visitors to enjoy the landscape.

Phu Laen Kha National Park (thaisign / Shutterstock.com)

Day 7: Chaiyaphum

On day 7, begin early with a day trip toTat Ton National Park. Located in the Laen Kha Mountain Range, the national park is home to many majestic waterfalls; Namtok Tat Ton being the best of them all. The park is also home to Chaopho Tat Ton Pu Duang, a shrine dedicated to Pu Huang, a highly respected Khmer. Head back to your hotel in the afternoon, then to the bus station in time for your bus back to Bangkok, or you may opt to continue traveling independently in Chaiyaphum, or extend your stay in the Isaac Region.

Namtok Tat Ton Waterfall (Miki Studio / Shutterstock.com)

This is the end of our 7-day suggested itinerary to Isaan. If you are on the lookout for new destinations and new experiences in Thailand and would like to avoid the swarms of tourists, then this itinerary might help you. Visit these cultural hot spots and beach destinations before the hordes get there! Enjoy Isaan!

Have you been to Isaan or anywhere else in Thailand? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? Let’s chat down below!

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/beaten-path-isaan-thailand/feed/07 days in Panay Island, Philippineshttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-panay-island-philippines/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-panay-island-philippines/#commentsThu, 24 Aug 2017 12:52:04 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4194Panay Island is the gateway to Boracay, the Philippines’ most famous beach destination. However, not many people know that Panay itself is a destination in its own right and has so much to offer. If you have 7 days in Panay, you may choose to explore its 4 provinces – Aklan, Antique, Iloilo and Capiz....

]]>Panay Island is the gateway to Boracay, the Philippines’ most famous beach destination. However, not many people know that Panay itself is a destination in its own right and has so much to offer. If you have 7 days in Panay, you may choose to explore its 4 provinces – Aklan, Antique, Iloilo and Capiz. With our 7-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming island and you will be introduced to its best attractions. You can absolutely make any changes you like, to adapt the tour to your preferences.

Things to know before traveling to Panay Island, the Philippines:

Language – The national language was labeled Filipino to acknowledge and embrace the existence of many English and Spanish-derived words. In the islands included in this itinerary, the locals speak regional languages, which include Tagalog, Cebuano, Hiligaynon and Ilonggo. English is emerging, especially in some popular destinations like Iloilo and Boracay, so you can get by without learning the language. However, speaking at least some Filipino phrases or words or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by the locals.

Social norms and etiquette – Being a Spanish Colony for over three hundred years and being under the United States for 50 years, foreign values have been adapted by Filipinos in their own peculiar fashion. For a foreign traveler, it is important to know that Filipinos, like most Asians, stress public harmony and overt conviviality. Any indication of conflict is readily buried and confrontation is frowned upon. Filipinos are extremely tolerant people, and are generally happy, generous and gregarious.

Money and costs – The official currency of the Philippines is the Peso (₱). Exchanging money in the Philippines is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. The Philippines is well serviced by a mixture of local and international banks offering widespread ATMs and online services. International credit cards, such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express, are widely accepted at big establishments. Make sure to bring Philippine peso if you are traveling to rural or remote areas.

Philippine peso currency bills (small1 / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for the Philippines. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid all travel to all areas in Mindanao due to serious threat of terrorism and kidnapping. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists. Driving on your own is not recommended because some roads are poorly maintained and locals have little regard for traffic regulations.

Accommodation – The Philippines has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. Budget hotels, bed and breakfasts, youth hostels and guesthouses, luxurious beach front resorts and villas are aplenty in the islands of Iloilo, Capiz and Antique. In Iloilo, there are plenty of hotels, budget hostels, inns, guesthouses, lodgings, and homestays located in the city. In Capiz, choose a beach resort in Roxas City to get spectacular views of the beach and the ocean. In Antique, most accommodation options are located in the towns of Tibiao and Pandan.

Getting around – Getting around the Philippines and taking public transportation might be a shocking experience to foreign visitors. Transportation options include local buses, jeepneys, habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) and tricycle. For long-distance travel, there are frequent flights, RORO (Roll On Roll Off) and overnight buses. For island to island travel, there are scheduled local boats and chartered boats. If you want the most flexibility in exploring big provinces like Iloilo and Antique, then you may rent a motorbike for about 350 to 500 pesos per day and explore by yourself.

A driver and his passengers in a unique public transport in the country where a motorcycle is modified to carry more than three people called Habal-Habal or Skylab (Herman R. Lumanog / Bigstockphoto)

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Manila to Roxas

Assuming you had to cross an ocean to get to Manila, your first day will be rife with jet lag. Take a flight that arrives in Manila as early as possible or stay overnight in to your preferred hotel/hostel if you arrive later in the day. To walk off your jet lag, walk around Manila’s ancient walled city of Intramuros. You may join Carlos Celdran’s Walk this Way tours of Intramuros. Tour fee is PHP 1100 for adults and PHP 350 for children (3-5 years old). You may also try Bambike Ecotours of Intramuros where visitors will be riding through the streets on bamboo bikes that have been handmade by Gawad Kalinga villagers in the Philippines. Ecotours costs PHP 1,200 (24 USD) inclusive of bike, helmet rental, bottle of water and entrance fees.

Colonial building in Intramuros district oldest district and historic core of Manila known as the Walled City (KimChi Images/Bigstockphoto)

After your historic tour of Intramuros, take a short domestic flight to Roxas City, the capital of Cadiz Province. The Philippines’ main international airport in Manila is plagued by congestion, so make sure travel to the airport 3 to 4 hours before your scheduled departure. After your arrival at Roxas Airport, check into your preferred hotel/guest house. The airport is conveniently located in the city and getting to the town proper of Roxas will only take approximately 15 minutes depending on traffic situation.

Don’t get out of Roxas City like most tourists do because the capital boast a few wonderful attractions. Some of the attractions you can visit on this day are the Manuel Roxas Ancestral House, Roxas Cathedral, Panublion Museum, Roxas City Bridge (Old Capiz Bridge), and Baybay Beach. No trip to the province of Capiz would be complete without going on a gastronomic adventure. To sample the freshest seafoods in the city, head to Baybay Seafood Court,Raffy’s Bistro, Spanggo Cafe & Pasalubong, and Cafe Terraza.

Day 3 to 4: Islas de Gigantes

Islas de Gigantes (Island of the Giants) is located in the northernmost part of Iloilo. In this small, sleepy little town, you will find pristine white sand beaches, stunning islands and rock formations, mystical caves, and bountiful fresh seafood. There are only a few accommodations in Gigantes Norte Island, so it is guaranteed you will have a quiet and relaxing stay.

You can laze around all day, spend your afternoon in a hammock reading a book or avail island tours. What are the best things to do in Isla de Gigantes? You can take island tours to Tangke, Bantigue Island, Cabugao Gamay Island, Antonia Beach, and Pawikan Cave. Gigantes is also a perfect place to sample freshest sea foods, from lobsters, squid, crabs, tuna, abalone, sea cucumber, squid, octopus, and many more.

How to get there: From Roxas City, board a bus going to the towns of Carles and Estancia, the main jump-off points. From there, you can either take a passenger boat or arrange a charter boat to the island. Total travel time from Roxas City is 3 to 4 hours.

Day 5: Iloilo

On your fifth day, catch the dynamic colors of the morning sun at the beach. Take a one last whirl of the island before you board the boat back to Carles or Estancia. Then, board a bus or jeepney to Iloilo City. Assuming you traveled in the morning, you will probably arrive at your accommodation just before lunch time. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Smallville before you take in a few historic sights in the city.

Iloilo is said to be the original title holder of the Queen City of the South. Cebu City now holds this title for reason of economic progress. But during Iloilo’s heyday in the late Spanish colonial period, the city was very wealthy due to the development of the sugar industry in the province and the nearby Negros Islands. The many wars witnessed by the city heavily damaged the infrastructure and thus resulted to the local economy’s decline. There are, however, some Spanish-colonial churches and ancestral houses that survived the turbulent times in city. Some that you can visit on this day are the Jaro Cathedral, Calle Real, Molo Church, Lizares Mansion and Bahay Camiña nga Bato. End the day with a walk along the Iloilo River Esplanade.

Jaro Cathedral, formally Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro (arda savasciogullari / Shutterstock.com)

Day 6 to 7: Antique

Wake up early on Day 5 and join the local runners and speed-walkers at Iloilo River Esplanade. It’s a great way to start the day and meet up with friendly people of Iloilo. Enjoy a quick breakfast at one the local carinderia (small family-owned restaurant) before your depart for Antique.

Iloilo River Esplanade (Andrei Goncharov / Shutterstock.com)

How to get there: From your accommodation in Iloilo City, charter a tricycle to Molo Bus and Van Terminal. At the terminal there are several buses and vans enroute to Antique. Get off at Tibiao, Antique. Travel time is approximately 3 hours.

The province of Antique is not a very popular destination among foreign travelers as well as local tourists. Since the old days, Filipinos associate Antique with the scary folkloric characters like the aswang and manananggal, and still to this day many people prefer not to visit the province. Myths and legends aside, Antique boasts beautiful beaches, rivers and spring, waterfalls, lush forests and friendly people. There are plenty of things you can do in the province but the first thing on the list of most visitors is the Kawa Hot Bath in Barangay Tuno in Tibiao. The Kawa (huge metal basin) is filled with water, which is then heated by the firewood beneath it up to your desired temperature.

Have you been to Panay Island or anywhere else in the Philippines? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-panay-island-philippines/feed/17 days in Java – the other face of Indonesiahttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-java-indonesia/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-java-indonesia/#respondTue, 22 Aug 2017 14:34:03 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4176Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia but Java, on the other hand, is an untamed beauty and there aren’t many foreign tourists in the region. Aside from surfing, Java boasts diverse attractions – rain forests and caves, beaches and islands, mountains and volcanoes, temples and museums, national parks. Wonderful surprises abound here but...

]]>Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia but Java, on the other hand, is an untamed beauty and there aren’t many foreign tourists in the region. Aside from surfing, Java boasts diverse attractions – rain forests and caves, beaches and islands, mountains and volcanoes, temples and museums, national parks. Wonderful surprises abound here but Java is so vast that in 1 week, you will only be able to explore a small part of it. However, with careful planning and prioritizing, you will be able to maximize your time and see some of the major attractions. This 7-day itinerary is for those who are short on time, but still want to get a good taste of what Java has to offer in one week.

Things to know before traveling to Java, Indonesia:

Language – Bahasa Indonesia is the national and official language of Indonesia. English is taught in schools and is widely used in Indonesian cities like Jakarta, so do not worry about not knowing local phrases or words. It is, however, recommended to learn some Javanese if you are heading towards rural areas. Like other countries in the world, speaking at least some Indonesian phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by locals.

Currency Exchange – The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Indonesia. Exchanging money is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Asia. You can exchange currency at the airport, hotels, malls, local banks, and money changers throughout Yogyakarta. ATMs are plentiful, all accepting international credit cards and debit cards, so it’s easy to withdraw your money in Rupiah. Credits cards are commonly accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels.

Indonesian Rupiah bills (simez78/Shutterstock.com)

Etiquette – Despite being open to foreign influences, Indonesia remains a fairly conservative nation. Handshakes are common when meeting someone. Avoid touching someone’s head as the head is considered sacred in eastern culture. There’s no need for a foreigner to feel obligated to dress in traditional Indonesian clothing. Modesty is the key in Java. If there is some kind of ceremonies going on, it is imperative to follow simple temple rules. To get into the temple, temple costumes should be strictly put on, while for other days one should wear polite dress with temple sash circled around waist. It all means to show respectfulness to God and to local tradition which ensure a memorable experience.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Indonesia. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid all travel to Central Sulawesi, East and West Kalimanta, and Papua due to serious threat of terrorism and kidnapping. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists. Driving on your own is not recommended because road travel can be very challenging and locals have little regard for traffic regulations.

Getting to Yogyakarta – Adisucipto International Airport is a small domestic airport that serves the region of Yogyakarta. It is very well connected to Jakarta (25 USD each way) and Denpasar(39 USD each way), which are the main international airports for tourists.

Where to stay – Due to its popularity among visitors worldwide, Yogyakarta has heaps of accommodation to suit every pocket, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. To help you decide on the best place to stay, it is recommended to do a bit of prior research so you won’t land in the wrong part of this busy city. Malioboro (and the Center of Yogyakarta), for example, is for visitors who want to stay in the center of the action. It is also a fantastic base for sightseeing. Jalan Prawirotaman and the South, on the other hand, is for art enthusiast and for people looking for a vibrant nightlife scene.

Day by day itinerary: 7 days in Java – the other face of Indonesia

Day 1: Temple tour and Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan

Since you only have 3 days out of the 7 days to spend in Yogyakarta, it can be tough to whittle down the must-sees. It is best if you hire a private driver and a tour guide, which you can arrange prior to arrival (either through your hotel or a travel agency, or use TripAdvisor to find one with good reviews). This will be a fantastic introduction to the most famous attractions of Yogyakarta and you may take this opportunity to ask your guide any questions you may have about life in Indonesia. Do your homework and research the possibilities of hiring a driver prior your trip. You can start with the two most recommended taxi companies on Tripadvisor – TW Driver Jogja and Jogja Jaya Transport.

Ullen Sentalu Museum is really worth to visit. Visitors are walked through the museum’s rooms by very knowledgable and passionate guides telling the history of the Javanese kingdoms. Highly recommended (saiko3p/Shutterstock.com)

Start the tour at Ullen Sentalu Museum, a Javanese culture and art museum. It is currently ranked No.1 attraction on TripAdvisor and for good reason. This large complex features a well maintained garden, beautifully preserved relics and artifacts from royal houses (Kraton in Javanese) and rich collection of Javanese oil paintings and sculptures. Just before lunch, head to the Sambisari Temple. This 9th-century Hindu temple is close to Yogyakarta Airport (Adisucipto International Airport) and is famous for its Buddhist and Hindu elements. Then, sample the best Javanese dishes at one of Yogyakarta’s most popular local restaurants like Milas, Jejamuran an The Sawah.

Stone statue at the Sambisari Temple near Yogyakarta. The temple was buried under 5 meters when discovered in 1966 and it is thought to have been buried by an eruption of volcanic ash from the nearby Mount Merap (Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock.com)

In the afternoon, your next destination is Prambanan Temple Compounds. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been well known as a tourist destination. Not only it is a photographer’s paradise, this is also the largest Hindu temple compound in Indonesia. It was built in the 10th century and it was dedicated to Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism. It is recommended to visit Prambanan in the afternoon so that you can catch the sunset and watch the Ramayana Ballet.

Candi Prambanan or Candi Rara Jonggrang is a 9th-century Hindu temple compound. It is is the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia, and one of the biggest in Southeast Asia (Andreas Hie/Shutterstocl.com)

Day 2: Borobudur Sunrise and Village Tour

Waiting for the sun of the new day to appear on the horizon in Borobudur Temple Compounds is one of the most fascinating experiences you could get in Indonesia. This Buddhist temple located in Central Java is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is probably the most iconic temple in Indonesia. The compound is quite big consisting of three monuments namely Borobudur Temple, Mendut Temple, and Pawon Temple. Thus, it would take 3-4 hours to fully explore the whole place. After the Borobudur tour, some travel packages offer a cycling tour through the local villages near the compound.

Sunrise above the magical Borobudur temple. Borobudur is the biggest Hindu temple in the world (Kanuman/Shutterstock.com)

Day 3: Yogyakarta Tour

Start in Yogyakarta Kraton (Royal Palace), the official residence of the Javanese monarchy in Yogyakarta. Constructed in 18th century, this palace is now open to the public and has become a Javanese museum. If you happen to be in the Kraton on a Sunday, then you can watch the classical tale of Ramayana. Just southwest of the Kraton is Taman Sari Water Castle, a former royal garden and castle baths of the Yogyakarta Sultanate. For lunch, head to Balé Raos Royal Cuisine Restaurant and enjoy a traditional Javanese meal.

A music hall at Kraton of Yogyakarta for the royal orchestra (Nadezda Murmakova / Shutterstock.com)

Jomblang cave is a vertical cave with out of this world ancient forest below. It is famous for its “light from Heaven” coming in through a hole in the cave (Scott Biales/Shutterstok.com)

Day 4: Yogyakarta to Surabaya

Take a flight that will arrive early at Surabaya Juanda International Airport. Travel to your chosen accommodation in Surabaya where you will be staying for one night before your adventure in Mount Bromo. If you’re on a tight schedule, we recommend flying from Yogyakarta to Surabaya and then arranging a car rental to take you to Bromo. Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air and Sriwijaya Air serve the Yogyakarta – Surabaya route, and travel time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes and prices for one-way tickets start at 31 USD.

Don’t rush to get away of Surabaya like most tourists do because the capital of Jawa Timur (East Java) boasts some wonderful attractions. Some of the attractions you can visit on this day are the Sampoerna Museum, Masjid Nasional Al Akbar, Suramadu National Bridge, and Muhammad Cheng Hoo Mosque.

A women looking for shells on the beach around Suramadu bridge. The Suramadu Bridge, also known as the Surabaya–Madura Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge between Surabaya on the island of Java and the town of Bangkalan on the island of Madura in Indonesia (INDONESIAPIX / Shutterstock.com)

Day 5: Surabaya to Bromo

Get up early and take the bus to Bromo from Surabaya Bus Station. About 5-6 hours aways from Surabaya, traveling by bus to Bromo is probably the most relaxing way to reach Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, where Mount Bromo is situated. There are four gates to access the national park: Wonokitri, Probolinggo, Ngadas and Lumajang. The Probolinggo route is the easiest and the most popular among budget travelers. If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver from Surabaya, and take the Wonokitri route, which is the fastest route to Bromo.

Make sure to find a hotel or hostel with good reviews and book well in advance. There are several accommodations in the heart of the protected natural preserve where you can practically see the mountain from your bedroom window. Accommodation options in this area costs higher than the usual Indonesian ones, but they provide easy access to Mount Bromo. You may also opt to stay Probolinggo and just take a day tour to Mount Bromo.

On day 6, after having a filling breakfast, set out at 3:00 AM for the impressive Mount Bromo. Assuming you choose to stay at Cemoro Lawang, the mountain village that’s right on the edge of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, then you can start the trek between 3:00 to 3:45 AM. Enjoying the view of the crater inside the crater and the sunrise views are the main attractions in the national park. The opportunity for incredible photographs is endless during the trip, so frequent stops are recommended for visitors to enjoy the landscape.

On day 7, begin early with a quick trip to Ijen Crater, the less crowded and touristy sister of Mount Bromo. You will wind your way through different stations depending on the types of activities you want to be involved in. You’ll walk along well maintained footpaths and get an up-close glimpse of the turquoise-colored crater lake from a number of perfectly perched view decks. Although Ijen is sleeping at the moment, it is declared an active volcano and is actively producing pungent odor of sulfur that is harmful to humans. Even though it has been declared as harmful, you will see many sulfur collectors that hike up here to mine the minerals at the crater every day.

The Ijen crater (Nuttawut Uttamaharad / Shutterstock.com)

This is the end of our 7-day suggested itinerary. Remember, this is just a guide for planning and is in no way, shape or form the only way to travel the city. There are several alternative routes of travel within the country and it will depend on your intended length of stay. Enjoy Java!

Have you been to Java or anywhere else in Indonesia? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: Mount Bromo volcano during sunrise, the magnificent view of Mt.Bromo located in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java, Indonesia (Mattanin Nonchang / Shutterstock.com)

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/7-days-java-indonesia/feed/03 days in and around Bangkok for the food lovershttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-bangkok-food-lovers/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-bangkok-food-lovers/#respondFri, 11 Aug 2017 17:07:26 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4164Bangkok, one of the most visited cities in the world today, is probably included in everyone’s bucket list. There’s a plethora of things to see and do, but the best way to experience the city is through its local cuisine. Satisfy your hunger pangs with our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary of Bangkok, while learning Thailand’s...

]]>Bangkok, one of the most visited cities in the world today, is probably included in everyone’s bucket list. There’s a plethora of things to see and do, but the best way to experience the city is through its local cuisine. Satisfy your hunger pangs with our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary of Bangkok, while learning Thailand’s history and cultural heritage. If this is your first time in the city, you may fine tune this itinerary to include some tourist attractions in between the suggested foodie destinations.

Things to consider before traveling to Bangkok, Thailand:

Language – Thai is the official language of Thailand. In Bangkok and other main tourist destinations, some Thai can speak English, specially the young people. Although English is taught in schools, it is not widely used by the locals. It is recommended to learn some Thai if you are heading towards rural areas where you can expect that a lot of people cannot speak any English.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB). ATMs can be found at airports, most tourist centers and shopping malls across the country. Exchanging money in Bangkok is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. International credit cards are widely accepted in upscale venue and international chains, though small businesses, especially stores and restaurants may not accept them.

Thai Baht currency bills (kckate16 / Shutterstock.com)

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Thailand. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid non-essential travel to Thailand-Myanmar border, especially the provinces of Tak and Mae Hong Son, and the Muslim-majority southernmost provinces of Thailand. Bangkok is a safe city to travel in. Scam is the most common problem in tourists’ areas and remains the number one source of complaints from foreign visitors. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been incidence of petty crimes like pick pocketing and snatching, ATM scams, taxi or tuk-tuk scams and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists.

Where to stay – Thailand has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, we recommend hotel option in Sukhumvit and Khao San Road to get easy access to most attractions. If you’ve been to Bangkok once before, and would like to venture away from the historic centre, then we suggest the Riverside.

Getting around – Getting around Bangkok and taking public transportation might be a shocking experience to foreign visitors. Transportation options include small minivans (tuk-tuks), BTS Sky Train, local buses (songthaew), motorbike sidecar taxis (Săhm·lór), motorbikes and rental cars. Although renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to get around, we do not recommend it to non-experienced drivers. Since traffic congestion has become a normal scenario in Bangkok, we recommend getting around by BTS Sky Train, which is inexpensive and fast.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in and around Bangkok for the food lovers

Day 1: Self Guided Bangkok Food Tour

On your first day, start early and eat at one of the sidewalk restaurants in Bangkok. There’s no better way to start the day than slurping down a bowl of steaming hot Khao Tom Thai Rice Soup. It is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Thailand made from rice cooked right in the broth with shallots, lemongrass, garlic, and with the delightful addition of seafood or ground pork, fresh vegetables and various herbs. Where to eat this dish? Just go down the streets and look for a place that you see a large number of local people gathering.

Khao Tom Thai rice soup (SONGPOL PUNTADESH / Shutterstock.com)

After breakfast, make your way to the Chinatown. It is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the world and is one of the most popular tourist attractions for travelers and gourmands. It boasts not only the best and authentic Chinese cuisine but also rich history and heritage. You can taste variety of most mouth-watering fares at Yaowarat Road. Take a quick coffee break and get an authentic local experience at Nahim Cafe & Handcraft.

For lunch, make your way to the Jay Fai Restaurant, located in the 327 Mahachai Road, and order seafood drunken noodles, another popular dish in Thailand made from jumbo prawns and crab meat in addition with drunken noodles. The name of the dish was derived because of its intense flavors that anyone will actually feel drunk. But fret not, there’s no alcohol added into this dish.

In the evening, watch a local Thai kickboxing match. Not only this a good alternative to shopping and sight-seeing, it will also provide great entertainment as well as an opportunity to learn about Thailand’s national sport. What makes this the centuries-old martial art amazing is that it is distinctly Thai – the ‘art of the eight limbs’. To get fully immersed with the match, you may consider joining a private tour with VIP ringside seats and a local guide. After the match, head to Sukhumvit for some drinks.

Day 2: Ayutthaya

Head of Buddha statue in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya (SIRIKAN PANSAI / Shutterstock.com)

On day 2, embark on one of the most interesting day trips out of the city by heading to Ayutthaya, the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. It is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Thailand, but it is no wonder why. This picturesque destination is rich with religious and historical diversity enough to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.While package tours to Ayutthaya remain quite popular for foreign visitors, the best way to explore it is by renting a bike and get around on your own. You may also just hire one of the tuk-tuk drivers waiting at the train station. A standard day tour normally costs 600 baht (around 15 to 20 USD), so make sure to negotiate the price before you engage with the tuk-tuk driver. Make sure to visit a traditional Thai-house style restaurant by the river, and enjoy some freshly grilled monster river prawn for lunch.

Tip: If you prefer a fully guided tour or you do not want to be bothered with logistics and everything else involved in planing a trip to Ayutthaya you can contact Tour with Tong (request Pam and her driver, the”Captain”, if you want to have lots of fun during the tour).

Day 3: Bangkok Guided Food Tour or Cooking Class

On day 3, continue your self-guided Bangkok food tour. Our first matter of business is breakfast. Obviously, breakfast of every trip should be solid. So, we recommend some famous Jok (Thai-style rice porridge). This popular breakfast dish is made from rice combined with pork or chicken, and chopped ginger, garlic, Thai soy sauce and fish sauce. It also comes with chopped garlic, green onions, ginger and shrimp as toppings.

Enjoy a seafood meal for lunch. Somboon Seafood at Siam Square One has been serving their iconic Poo Phad Phong Karee (Fried Curry Crab) since 1969, and everything you have heard about them is true. Their fried curry crab is stir fried and drenched with curry gravy. You can also order crab fried rice to go along this dish. After lunch, buy some pomegranate juice from one of the roadside fruits stalls. This juice is known to improve digestion and regulate bowel movement. When you buy in Bangkok, make sure to get the freshly squeezed ones or ask the vendor to process the drink on the spot. Some stalls in the street prepare their juices with only 40% Pomegranate.

Do not be shy to ask the person behind the fruit cart to prepare you some fresh pomegranate juice (chartphoto / Shutterstock.com)

For your last dinner in Bangkok, try the Pratu Phi Pad Thai (charcoal fired stir fried pad Thai) in Thip Samai Pad Thai Restaurant located at 313 Mahachai Road. This legendary dish is made from thick handfuls of dry rice noodles and loaded with shrimps, tofu, bean sprouts, leeks and other special ingredients. After it’s done, the freshly cooked Pad Thai will be swirled around like a crepe with beaten egg.

If you want a more in-depth food experience, then you may consider joining a traditional cooking class, wherein you will learn how to cook the most popular Thai cuisines and know its history and origin. You will also be introduced to traditional Bangkok flavors and learn the simplest way to cook them. There are plenty of tours offered online, so make sure to read reviews first before you make your reservation. Chef LeeZ Thai Cooking Class, Sompong Thai Cooking School, Silom Thai Cooking School and Baipai Thai Cooking School offer some of the best cooking classes in Bangkok based on TripAdvisor reviews.

Have you experienced the food in Bangkok? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: The iconic Temple of Dawn Wat Arun along the Chao Phraya river (pius99 / Bigstockphoto)

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-bangkok-food-lovers/feed/0Spend 3 days in Cape Town, South Africahttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/spend-3-days-cape-town-south-africa/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/spend-3-days-cape-town-south-africa/#respondThu, 10 Aug 2017 14:33:42 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4148If you’re heading to Cape Town and you only have maximum of 3 days, you can still have a thoroughly exciting trip. Of course, spending 3 days in some of the famous destinations in the city still won’t scratch the surface. However, by organizing your itinerary in advance, minimizing your travel time and prioritizing which...

]]>If you’re heading to Cape Town and you only have maximum of 3 days, you can still have a thoroughly exciting trip. Of course, spending 3 days in some of the famous destinations in the city still won’t scratch the surface. However, by organizing your itinerary in advance, minimizing your travel time and prioritizing which destinations you would really like to see, you can make the most of your vacation. With our 3-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming city and you will be introduced to its best attractions. You can absolutely make any changes you like, to adapt the tour to your preferences.

Things to consider before traveling to Cape Town, South Africa:

Health – South Africa has several world-class private hospitals and medical centers providing specialist services by highly skilled professionals. Though in rural area, hospitals deal with primary health care and limited range of health care, trained medical professionals are deployed around the country. Getting a comprehensive travel insurance before departure is recommended as medical costs can be quite expensive. Exercise safety precautions if engaging in any sexual activities as South Africa has the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS infection.

Recommended vaccinations – If you are arriving from a yellow-fever endemic area, you are required to get vaccinations four to six weeks prior to your arrival in South Africa and a proof of yellow fever vaccination needs to be presented. Hepatitis B vaccines are required for children 0 to 12 years old who have not yet completed series of vaccinations during infancy. Vaccines for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid are also recommended. (see more information here)

Food and water safety – Hygiene standards in relation to food safety is generally high in most restaurants, hotels and clubs. It is safe to eat vegetables, fresh fruits and salads. Chicken, meat and fish are of excellent quality thus you can enjoy South Africa’s local cuisine. Tap water is potable however, not all water in rural areas is safe to drink ergo bottled water is advised.

Weather – South Africa is in a subtropical location with plenty of sunny, dry days. Winter is nothing compared to what is experience in Europe and snow is rare. Rainy months are from May to August and summer is from November to March.

Politics – A well-known fact about South Africa is that it was under an all-white government which implemented a system of racial segregation called apartheid. Under this system, non-white South Africans, who are majority of the population, were forced to live in separate areas from whites. From public facilities to marriage, all contacts between whites and people of other races are separated and prohibited. It was only in 1994 that a coalition government composed of non-white majority was established and thus marking the official end of apartheid. Because of this, tourism have improved and international arrivals have surged.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for South Africa. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Keep your guard up at all times and avoid any streets that are not crowded. Do not carry debit or credit cards with you, or hide it in your bra or shoes. There were incidences of robbery when offenders will escort you to an ATM and make you take out as much as you can. If you are staying in a hotel, leave your passport and other valuables in the safety deposit box in the reception. Just carry a photocopy of your passport. If you are renting out a car, always keep the car locked and don’t leave valuables. Do not stop for any hitch hiker or person in trouble on the open road.

Getting around – Cape Town is the most cosmopolitan city in South Africa, so getting around is pretty simple and easy. The city features an excellent public transport network consisting of trains, taxis, public buses, tourist buses and rental cars. Being a relatively small city, Cape Town is bicycle friendly and can also be easily explored by foot. Another reliable option when getting around is by Uber. If you’re budget conscious, then Rikkis Share Ride, a shared door-to-door taxi service, might be a better option.

Detailed itinerary: Spend 3 days in Cape Town, South Africa

Day 1: Historic Tour

Your adventure in South Africa starts today. Arrive in Cape Town, South Africa’s oldest city and home to soaring Table Mountain along with other gorgeous natural landscapes. Check in to your preferred hotel, before having an afternoon to take in some of the tourists attractions. Cape Town’s metropolitan area is full of things to see and experience – all within easy walking distance.

After brunch, make your way to the District Six Museum. This museum is founded in honor of the Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867, a mixed community of merchants, artisans, laborers, freed slaves and immigrants. It was a vibrant center until in 1966, it was forcibly taken down by Apartheid declaring the area a “white-only” zone. Then, travel to Langa, Cape Town’s oldest suburb township. During the Apartheid, townships were the designated areas for Black Africans. You can also visit Khayelitsha, the largest township.

New apartment building takes place in District Six, the site of forced removals and bulldozing of homes during the Apartheid era (lesapi images / Shutterstock.com)

In the afternoon, relive history and visit the Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent the first 18 years of his 27-year prison sentence. During the Apartheid years, the island was a place for exile, imprisonment and isolation for those who were regarded as political prisoners and troublemakers.

Robben Island, Cape Town, South Africa – A Home To The Prison Where Nelson Mandela Spent 18 Years (Mark52 / Bigstockphoto)

Celebrate your first night in Cape Town at one of the restaurants along Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Sample the local cuisine known as Cape Malay, authentic Greek, Italian, French, Thai or Indian. Most restaurants offer spectacular views of the azure Atlantic Ocean, the golden beaches and the iconic Table Mountain.

A yellow picture frame at Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is one of the must do’s tourist attractions in Cape Town (Moobatto / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2: Nature Tour

There’s no better way to start your second day than visiting the Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. This South African icon has approximately 3 kilometers long of level plateau and rises 3,558 ft above sea-level. The mountain not only offers fantastic landscape, it is also a cultural and spiritually relevant site for the Khoi and San people. Researchers say that there were evidences that this mountain was inhabited in the Stone Age. To appreciate the history of the Table Mountain, it is best to join a guided tour. You may also go to the mountain on your own by hiking or riding a cable car.

Do not miss the Cape Point Nature Reserve, which is the beautiful tip of the Cape Peninsula and one of the region’s best vantage points to view the Cape. Climb to the Cape Point Lighthouse and be rewarded with a spectacular view. The nature reserve also boasts many natural wonders including thousands of indigenous plant species and hundreds of bird species. If your travel date happens to be between May to October, and you have enough luck credits, then you might be able to see whales off the coast.

Cape Point Nature Reserve (Harry Beugelink / Shutterstock.com)

On the way back to Cape Town, stop at Simon’s Town on the False Bay Coast and look out for some remarkable residents there. Watch the colony of African Penguins cover the Boulders Beach and be amazed of their antics. Watch them dive for fish, play on the rocks and explore their natural habitat.

Couple of penguins at Boulders Beach (MrLis / Shutterstock.com)

Day 3: Eat your way through Cape Town

On your last day, get ready to eat, drink, and explore your way through the rest of Cape Town. Head south along the Cape Peninsula to Hout Bay (meaning “Wood Bay”), a lively coastal village with a mesmerizing beach and a lovely harbor where you can purchase some of the best fish and local produce in the world.

If you want to get insight into the local food culture in Cape Town, then join a food tour which lasts for about 3 hours. Cape Fusion Tours – Day Tours, Explore Sideways (Woodstock), Taste the Cape Travel & Tours and Tour the Cape – Day Tours are some of the top-rated tour companies in the city offering excellent food tours. These food tours have excellent reviews in TripAdvisor, so you might want to check out what travelers say.

Have you been to Cape Town or anywhere else in South Africa? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/africa/spend-3-days-cape-town-south-africa/feed/0Best way to spend 3 days in Seville, Spainhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-way-spend-3-days-seville-spain/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-way-spend-3-days-seville-spain/#respondFri, 04 Aug 2017 21:12:08 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4139Seville, the capital city of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, is known for its ‘posh’ streets and squares, Catholic buildings and Moorish architecture, Flamenco, traditional tapa bars and restaurants. With our 3-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming city and you will be introduced to its best attractions. You can absolutely...

]]>Seville, the capital city of southern Spain’s Andalusia region, is known for its ‘posh’ streets and squares, Catholic buildings and Moorish architecture, Flamenco, traditional tapa bars and restaurants. With our 3-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this charming city and you will be introduced to its best attractions. You can absolutely make any changes you like, to adapt the tour to your preferences.

Things to know before traveling to Seville, Spain:

Language – Spanish is the official language of Spain. Also called Castilian, it is the first language of over 72% of the population in the country. Other languages are also spoken in certain areas such as Catalan in Catalonia, Galician in Galicia, Basque in the Basque Country and Valencian in Valencia. Speaking at least some Spanish phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by the locals. Some helpful phrases are as follows:

Buenos días = Good morning

Buenos trades = Good afternoon

Buenas noches = Good evening

Habla inglés? = Do you speak English?

Por favor = Please

Gracias = Thank you

Cómo está? = How are you?

Cuánto cuesta? = How much does it cost?

Currency Exchange – The official currency of Spain is the Euro (EUR), the same currency now used by most Western European countries with the exception of the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway. Exchanging money in Spain is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Europe. The best way to get local currency (Euro) is to use the ATM and withdraw in Euros to get the best rate. You may also transact with Banks and Bureaux de change.

Social life and etiquette – Spanish people usually have breakfast at around 10:00 am, while lunch (la comida), the biggest meal of the day is normally from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Dinner is no earlier than 8:00 pm and often start as late as 10:00 pm, and it is a very light meal followed by a leisurely stroll (paseo). Tipping is a common practice in Spain, although not always expected. People in Spain tend to be always on time, so it is important to get used to the time zone.

Getting around – 3 days provides barely enough time to see the best of Seville, so basic knowledge on how to get around is recommended. The center of the city is a fairly compact area which can be explored on foot or on a bicycle.

Where to stay – There’s a great variety of accommodation in Spain, ranging from small family-run pensions to five-star luxury hotels. In almost any town, there’s something for every level of comfort and budget. In Seville, it is recommended to stay in El Arenal to get easy access to the city’s famous attractions and get plenty of dining options. It is located near the cathedral, shopping street of Calle Sierpes and the bull ring. If you’ve been to Seville once before, and would like to venture away from the center, then Train is the perfect choice for you. It is located outside the city but offers an authentic village feel. It’s also home to some of the best tapa bars in Seville!

Day by day itinerary: Best way to spend 3 days in Seville, Spain

Day 1

If you are coming directly from Madrid, then you can travel to Seville by train or by bus. Trains are the most preferred way to travel because it takes only 2 hours and 30 minutes to get to Seville. For time table and ticket information, visit National Rail’s official website. From the train station, take a local bus or a taxi to get to your chosen accommodation. Rest and settle in before you start the walking tour.

Depending on your time of arrival, you can either take it easy and soak up the atmosphere in Seville or you can begin your tour of its famous attractions. Assuming you arrived in the morning, you can spend your time wandering the labyrinth of narrow streets of Barrio de Santa Cruz. The opportunity for incredible photographs is endless during this walking tour, so frequent stops are recommended to enjoy its medieval streets.

In the evening, it’s time to enjoy a passionate flamenco show! It’s hard to know which shows are offering the real deal, so make sure to read plenty of online reviews in TripAdvisor or other forums. Casa de la Memoria, Casa del Flamenco and Museo del Baile Flamenco are some of the best in the city based on TripAdvisor reviews.

Day 2

On Day 2, head for the Catedral de Sevilla (also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See), the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the third-largest church in the world. Because of its monumental architecture and historic relevance, It was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1987. To appreciate its beauty, you may stroll around the magnificent interiors and pay a visit to the tomb of Christopher Columbus. Then, climb to the top of Giralda Tower, once the mosque’s minaret, and marvel at the views.

Head north of Cathedral and explore the Real Alcázar de Sevilla, which is a royal palace in Seville made by the order of the Moorish Muslim kings. Declared in 1987 by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Alcazar boasts seven hectares of gardens, grandiose palaces and fortresses. Some parts of the Alcazar were also featured in the 5th season of the Game of Thrones. If you want to learn more about its beautiful Moorish architecture and the history behind it, then you may join a guided tour.

The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace in Seville, Spain, originally developed by Moorish Muslim kings. Its garden are definitely worth your time! (Nik_Sorokin / Bigstockphoto)

After lunch, make your way to the Mercado de Triana (Triana Market), the covered market in the city’s former gypsy quarter. Aside from its vast array of fresh produce and food products, the market itself has a great atmosphere with an equally interesting history.

With time remaining, go for a stroll through Plaza de España, located in the Parque de María Luisa. In the evening, do not miss to try the traditional tapa bars and stand at the bar while eating tapas and drinking lager beer. Visitors will surely appreciate Seville’s unpretentious bar scene and vibrant nightlife.

View of Plaza de Espana complex. Built in 1929, the complex has the shape of a huge half circle with a total area of 50,000 square meters (Capture Light / Shutterstock.com)

Day 3

You can dedicate Day 3 in El Arenal. Biking around Seville is a great option which allows you to enjoy the area at your own pace. Check out its cafes, restaurants, tapa bars and art galleries that you might have missed. Squeeze in some souvenir shopping at Ceramica Ruiz, Mercado de Triana or Plaza de Toros de Sevilla(Bullring of Seville) before you head back to your hotel and prepare for your departure. Or, you can choose to stay in Seville longer and travel to other parts of Spain. The decision is all yours!

This is the end of our 3-day itinerary. Remember, this is just a guide for planning and is in no way, shape or form, the only way to travel the city. There are several alternative routes of travel within Seville and it will depend on your intended length of stay. Happy travels!

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/best-way-spend-3-days-seville-spain/feed/0Make the most of your layover in Dubai, UAEhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/layover-dubai-uae/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/layover-dubai-uae/#respondWed, 02 Aug 2017 12:52:51 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4130Transiting through United Arab Emirates’ Dubai International Airport with 24 hours or less between flights? Be sure to make the most of your layover in Dubai, UAE by visiting the city of Dubai, the most populous city in the seven emirates. This 24-hour suggested itinerary will lead you to the city’s famous tourist attractions and...

]]>Transiting through United Arab Emirates’ Dubai International Airport with 24 hours or less between flights? Be sure to make the most of your layover in Dubai, UAE by visiting the city of Dubai, the most populous city in the seven emirates. This 24-hour suggested itinerary will lead you to the city’s famous tourist attractions and will help you make the most of your layover. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs. Enjoy Dubai!

Things to know before traveling to or transiting in Dubai:

Language – The official language of Dubai is Arabic, which is spoken by the majority of population. Most Arabs in Dubai speak English, so you can absolutely get by without speaking Arabic. However, not all people in Dubai can speak English so learning a few basic Arabic words and phrases is recommended. Just like in other countries, speaking at least some Arabic phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency of United Arab Emirates is dirham (AED or Dhs). Exchanging money in Dubai is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in the Middle East. Being the premiere business or leisure destination in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is dotted with foreign exchange providers in all corners of the city. You can also get your currency exchanged at the airport. International debit cards and credit cards are widely accepted.

Clothing – There’s no need for a foreigner to feel obligated to dress in traditional Arabian clothing. Modesty is the key in Dubai. For women, avoid revealing clothes so you won’t get unwanted attention. Jeans and shorts not higher than mid-calf, knee-length skirts partnered with T-shirts or blouse are acceptable. For men, loose cotton shirts, T-shirts and pants are okay. Lastly, while visiting places of worship, you should be fully clothed. Don’t forget to remove your footwear before entering a mosque.

Transportation – Getting around Dubai is relatively easy. Because of cheap petrol prices in United Arab Emirates, taking a taxi is the best and easiest way to get around. Buses are also a good choice as they comfortable and affordable. If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver to take you around Dubai. This option is expensive but it will give you complete control of the trip.

Accommodation – Dubai has some of the best villas and luxury hotels, hostels and guest houses ideally nestled in the heart of the city. The most frequently asked question from first time travelers is, “What’s the best area to stay in when visiting Dubai?” If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, we recommend hotel options in Downtown Dubai or Creekside (Deira), since all of the main sights are so close to each other and can be easily reached on foot. If you don’t plan to stay overnight and go straight to the airport after your layover in Dubai tour, then you can store your luggage at the luggage counters at Terminal 1 and 3 of Dubai International Airport. The cost is about AED 25 for every 12 hours, depending on the size of your luggage.

Detailed itinerary: Make the most of your layover in Dubai, UAE

Day 1

After your arrival at Dubai International Airport, check into your preferred accommodation. After breakfast, embark on a trip to the places in Dubai that will showcase how the community all started. Begin in Bur Dubai and visit Harib Bin Harib Mosque. Not so far from the mosque, you may also visit the Heritage and Diving Villages, a living museum where visitors can learn Dubai’s past and its pearl industry. Visit two more houses of worship, the Al-Mulla Mosque and the Al-Otaibat Mosque, and marvel their traditional architecture. Your last destination for this morning is Bastakiya, the historic old town.

Tiny alleyways and wind towers in the old merchant quarter of Bastakiya in Dubai (Marsy / Bigstockphoto)

If you want a break from Dubai’s afternoon heat, then you can take a half-day ski experience at Ski Dubai. You may also avail the Polar Express – Snow Penguin, a 40 minute Penguin interaction. If you would like to experience water adventure instead, then head to Dubai’s most popular water parks including Wild Wadi Water Park, Aquaventure Water Park and Atlantis The Palm.

Tired of shopping? Take a break and go skiing at Ski Dubai (bloodua / Bigstockphoto)

For first time visitors, please note that most shops and souks are often closed during noon and early afternoon. So in the late afternoon (around 4:00 PM), make your way to Deira and explore its old traditional souks. Walk along the Gold and Spice souks where you can bargain the best price for a good piece of souvenir, medicinal herb or exotic seasonings. You can also visit the other souks like the Fish Souk, Perfume Souk, and Grand Souk Deira. Even if you are not buying much, a walk through the souks is definitely worth it as it offers plenty of sights to photograph. If you want to go shopping without having to to brave the midday heat, you may visit The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Wafi City for Dubai’s most upscale boutique shops and high street brand.

Spicies for sale at one of the souks in Old Town Dubai (Robert Haandrikman / Shutterstock.com)

After shopping, make your way to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. This is a perfect place for sunset viewing where you can get splendid panoramic views of Dubai and beyond. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon so you can catch the sunset as well as see daytime and nighttime views. For about AED 500, you can get access to the highest outdoor observatory in the world and bask in the luxury of Burj Khalifa SKY lounge.

Today is your international flight out of Dubai. If you still have time, fit in an amazing breakfast or lunch in the town. You could even squeeze in some souvenir shopping before you travel to the airport. Head to the airport in time to check in for your international flight or you may opt to continue traveling independently, or extend your stay in Dubai (check what to do in Dubai in 5 days). The decision is all yours!

This is the end of our 24 hour suggested itinerary for a layover in Dubai, UAE. If the pace gets too hectic, just chill out and prioritize which area you would really like to visit. Enjoy your layover in Dubai!

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/layover-dubai-uae/feed/03 days in the land of “Game of Thrones”… aka Northern Irelandhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/3-days-game-thrones-northern-ireland/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/3-days-game-thrones-northern-ireland/#respondSat, 29 Jul 2017 23:24:59 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4117It’s been an extra-long time coming this year for the 7th Season of Game of Thrones. If you’ve been a fan of this award-winning TV show, then you probably have your personal Game of Thrones Bucket List. To honor the new Season 7 of Game of Thrones, we’ve put together a 3-day suggested itinerary that will...

]]>It’s been an extra-long time coming this year for the 7th Season of Game of Thrones. If you’ve been a fan of this award-winning TV show, then you probably have your personal Game of Thrones Bucket List. To honor the new Season 7 of Game of Thrones, we’ve put together a 3-day suggested itinerary that will take you to some of the places featured in the show filmed in Northern Ireland. For 3 days, you would be able to visit the dramatic and alluring locations where it all happened. If this is your first time in Northern Ireland, you may fine tune this itinerary to include some tourist attractions in between the suggested destinations.

Things to know before traveling to the land of “Game of Thrones”… aka Northern Ireland:

Language – English and Irish are the two official languages of Northern Ireland. Since Northern Ireland has slowly turned into a multi-cultural society, which is now clearly visible almost everywhere, you’ll often hear people on the street, shops and restaurants speaking just about anything from Scots (known as Ulster Scots) to Chinese to Arabic.

Currency exchange – The official currency in Northern Ireland is the British Pound Sterling, which is the same currency used in Wales, Scotland, and England. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and Bureau de Change Kiosks which are located in the airports and city centers. It is also good to know that there are plentiful of ATMs available throughout the country so you will surely have easy access to cash. If you plan to use your credit card in Belfast or other parts of the United Kingdom, check with your bank if they have a “chip and pin” or “chip and signature” credit card. The United Kingdom uses the “chip and pin” for added security.

Etiquette – The Irish are modest, tolerant and independent people. They are reserved and they value privacy. Their country doesn’t seem very foreign to many visitors but it’s important to remember some do’s and dont’s to enjoy a faux pas free journey. As a visitor, you are expected to behave politely and dress appropriately. On meeting, ensure an eye contact with a firm handshake with all attendees. Do not forget to say please and thank you when out and about.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Northern Ireland. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Observe the same precautions with your personal safety and health as you would in any other country. Although most visits are trouble free, remain vigilant because petty crimes like pick pocketing and theft do occur. For medical emergencies, fire and police services, dial 999.

Where to stay – There are many types of holiday accommodation in Belfast, from luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like youth hostels and bed and breakfast. There are also plenty of apartment rentals if you prefer the comfort and convenience of having your own place with cooking facilities. The most frequent question from first time travelers is, “What’s the best area to stay in when visiting Belfast?” Without a doubt, the best area to stay in is the central to get easy access to most attractions and to get more hotel options. The Cathedral Quarter and Queens Quarter are also excellent neighborhoods for either a quick weekend getaway or a longer visit in the city.

Getting around – Belfast can be easily explored on foot or on a bicycle. You can either bike on your own or you can join one of the guided biking tours offered in the city. Also, traveling using public transportation in Belfast is relatively easy as all roads are well-maintained and the public transport system is one of Europe’s finest. If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver to take you around Northern Ireland. This option is expensive but will give you complete control of the trip. Renting a car and driving on your own is another great option.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in the land of “Game of Thrones”… aka Northern Ireland

Day 1

On your first day, take in a few of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions featured in the Game of Thrones. There’s no better way to start your adventure than visiting the Castle Ward, known as Winterfell in the TV series. It is seat of the warden of the North and the ancestral home of House Stark. This was the location of Season 1 premiere and the filming site for much of the season.

Next stop is the Quintin Castle and the Quentin Bay, which are the filming locations of Castle Stokeworth. This was where Ser Bronn of the Blackwater and Jaime Lannister planned a secret mission to rescue Princess Myrcella from Dorne. Although the castle grounds is not open to public, visitors can take a stroll along the beach and marvel at the stunning Quentin Bay.

After lunch, make your way to the Tollymore Forest Park, which is located at Bryansford, near the town of Newcastle. This park is known as the Haunted Forest in Westeros, the vast expanse of wild woodland home to the wildlings the the White Walkers. This was also where the Starks found their newborn direwolves, and where the bastard Ramsey Bolton hunted Then Greyjoy when he escaped.

Last stop for day 1 is the ruins of Inch Abbey, where the Northern houses took up the cry of “the King in the North!” while rallying around Robb Stark, the young wolf. It is where the northerners camp in the Riverlands, before they marched towards King’s Landing.

Ruins of Inch Abbey (Attila JANDI / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2

If Belfast is your preferred base for this trip, then satisfy your hunger pangs with a morning visit to St George’s Market, open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. One of the oldest attractions in the city, the market is the best way to experience the city’s local cuisine. Most visitors might not know it but the city offers inexplicable variety of food worth trying. You can grab some pastries and coffee while listening to live music from local bands and solo artists.

After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive along the Causeway Coastal Route onward to Ballycastle, the location of the Dark Hedges Road. This otherworldly landscape known in the series as the Kingroads, is an ancient tunnel-like avenue lined with natural archway of intertwined beech trees. This was where Arya Stark escaped the Lannisters. At the end of the road, you’ll find the Gracehill House, where you can make a quick stop for lunch.

Then, make your way to the little seaside village of Ballintoy, known in Game of Thrones as Pyke on the Iron Islands, the stronghold of House Greyjoy and the home of the Ironborn. The nearby Ballintoy Beach was where Euron Greyjoy, brother of Balon Greyjoy, is drowned to submit to the Iron Throne and become king of the Ironborn. Do not miss to take the paths to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a swimming rope bridge where Beylon Greyjoy fell.

End the day at the gorgeous Shillanavogy Valley, which appeared in the Game of Thrones as the vast Dothraki grasslands. Khal Drogo rode across this vast expanse towards Vaes Dothrak with the Dothrakis and his new wife, Daenerys “Stormborn” Targaryen.

Day 3

On the last day of filming location tour, start your day with a bang by visiting the scenic beach at Portstewart Strand while waiting for the sunrise. The huge sand dunes on this area is where Jaime Lannister and Brown of the Blackwater were captured by the Dornish soldiers.

Portstewart Strand (Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock.com)

Just a short drive from the Portstewart Strand is Mussenden Temple, a replica of the Roman Temple of Vesta. This is where Stannis Baratheon had converted to the Lord Of Light by Melisandre, and rejected the Faith of the Seven, which is the chief religion of Westeros.

After lunch, hike to the gorgeous mountain of Binevenagh, one of the most popular coastal mountains in Northern Ireland. The trail begins at the Leighrey Road, just off the Causeway Coastal Route. This is where Daenerys Targaryen escaped atop the dragon’s back from the fighting pits of Mehreen.

View from Binevenagh Mountain (James Kennedy NI / Shutterstock.com)

Head back to your hotel, then to the airport in time to check in for your international flight home, or you may opt to continue traveling independently in Northern Ireland, or extend your stay in Belfast.

This is the end of our 3-day suggested itinerary. Remember, this is just a guide for planning and is in no way, shape or form, the only way to travel Northern Ireland. There are several alternative routes of travel within the country and it will depend on your intended length of stay. Enjoy!

Have you been to any of the filming locations for Game of Thrones? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: Mussenden Temple is a small circular building located on cliffs near Castlerock in County Londonderry, high above the Atlantic Ocean on the north-western coast of Northern Ireland (ShaunTurner / Shutterstock.com)

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/3-days-game-thrones-northern-ireland/feed/0Spend 3 days of summer on Mekong River and the 4000 Islands of Laoshttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/4000-islands-laos/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/4000-islands-laos/#respondThu, 27 Jul 2017 16:42:04 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4107The 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) of Southern Laos is voted as one of the best value summer destinations in Southeast Asia. It is known for freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins, countless waterfalls, stunning landscapes, endless rivers, and lush forests, all worthwhile reasons to visit. Although it may not rival the party atmosphere of Thailand beaches, the...

]]>The 4000 Islands (Si Phan Don) of Southern Laos is voted as one of the best value summer destinations in Southeast Asia. It is known for freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins, countless waterfalls, stunning landscapes, endless rivers, and lush forests, all worthwhile reasons to visit. Although it may not rival the party atmosphere of Thailand beaches, the islands of Laos offer numerous opportunities for relaxation and recreation. This 3-day suggested itinerary will lead you to Don Det and Don Khong’s famous attractions and will help you make the most of your trip. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs.

Things to know before traveling to 4000 Islands of Laos:

Language – Lao, which belongs to the Tai language family (Thai), is the official language of Laos. The Lao language spoken in both Laos and Northeastern Thailand is very similar but have some variation in the tone structure. It’s also important to note that there are five major dialects in Laos, depending on geographic location. In Vientiane and other main tourist destinations, most Laotian speak Lao and Thai. Although English is on the rise, it is not widely used by the locals. It is recommended to learn some Lao or Thai if you are heading towards rural areas where you can expect that a lot of people cannot speak any English.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). ATMs can be found in Vientiane and some rural towns. Exchanging money in Laos is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. If you are coming from Vientiane or Pakse, make sure to carry enough Lao kips with you to last for your entire stay on the 4000 Islands because there are no ATMs in this part of the country. Some guesthouses offer currency exchange but at a very unfavorable rate.

Lao kips, currency of Laos (FS11 / Shutterstock.com)

Where to stay – Laos has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. Don Det, the most popular island in the entire 4000 islands, is where most backpackers stay. There are plenty of budget guesthouses in the island, which offers excellent view of the Mekong River.

Getting around – Getting around Laos and taking public transportation might be a shocking experience to foreign visitors. Transportation options include small minivans (tuk-tuks), boats, local buses, tourist bus or VIP mini vans, motorbike sidecar taxis (Săhm·lór), rental cars and public trucks (Songthaews). Although renting a motorbike is one of the most popular ways to get around, we do not recommend it to non-experienced drivers. Renting a car and driving on your own is also not advised because road travel in Laos can be hazardous, as roads are often poorly maintained. Locals have little regard for traffic regulations and do not follow safe driving practices.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Laos. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Avoid non-essential travel to Xaisomboun Province, portions of Road 13 of Vientiane Province and the “new road” between Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Every traveler, especially solo female travelers, should take safety precautions because there has been an increase in reported armed robberies, sexual assault and violent crime targeting tourists.

Detailed itinerary: Summer in the 4000 Islands of Laos

Day 1

Your 3-day adventure in Don Det and Don Khong starts today! Most travelers come from Pakse, which is located between the Mekong and Xe Don rivers, and approximately 2 hours north of Nakasong Ferry Boat Station. Most tourist buses leave Pakse at 8 or 9 in the morning. One way ticket is about 60,000 Lao Kip (about 7 USD), which includes bus and boat fares. Upon arrival in Don Det or Don Khong, check into your preferred accommodation. If your bus gets in early enough, head to the nearest restaurant or cafe for a quick brunch. Wear a comfortable walking shoes as you will do a lot of walking or biking for today.

Make your way to the center of Don Det, where most of the bicycle rentals are located. Whole day bicycle rental costs 10,000 Lao Kips (1.25 USD) without deposit. Spend the rest of the day biking around Don Khong, where you can enjoy the pristine and quiet atmosphere of the area, and if you have enough luck credits, you might get to see the Irrawaddy dolphins from the beach! You may also check out some of the waterfalls in the island likeSomphamit (Li Phi) Waterfalls, located about 3 kilometers from the bridge that connects Don Det and Don Khong. Admission fee is 30,000 Lao Kips (3.65 USD). End the day with a drink or delicious Lao food at the local restaurant overlooking Li Phi Waterfalls.

Li Phi Waterfall, also called Somphamit Waterfall, is one of the highlights of the 4,000 Islands (Lifebrary / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2

Wake up early and visit Ban Nakasang, a small riverside town in Southern Laos and just 15 minutes by boat from Don Det. Here, you’ll find a traditional morning market, which is one of the best places in Southern Laos to snap up a bargain. You can find almost everything inside the market, from fresh produce, local food, jewelry, clothing, household goods, traditional Laotian clothing and tons of knock off designer clothing. Since Don Det and Don Khong do not have daily markets, you may also buy your supplies here. Don’t forget to haggle to get the best bang for your buck. Aside from shopping, the morning market is also a great place to get a taste of the local life in Laos.

After your morning tour of Ban Nakasang, make your way back to Don Det and head to the beach. This is the starting point of your tubing adventure down the Mekong River. Tubing in Don Det has become a ‘must do’ in the island, and some people might wonder why. The fun lies with floating down the river on a floating device, which is normally made of the inner tube of a truck tire. While floating, you can get stunning views of the river and you can get a real tan too! If you plan to bring some liquor with you, remember not to get drunk in the water as alcohol is the number 1 cause of accidents in the river. Also, remember to stop tubing in the bridge connecting Don Det and Don Khong, as this area has very strong rapids.

Day 3

On day 3, get up early and prepare for a day full of interesting experiences. Start by having some breakfast in your chosen accommodation. The staple food of the Laotian people is steamed sticky rice (Klao niaw). Most Laotian eat sticky rice three times a day, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

There is no better way to end your adventure in the 4000 islands of Laos than joining a kayaking tour. Make sure to bring a dry bag, enough water and snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat. After hotel pickup in Don Det, you’ll receive some basic paddle instructions before heading out with your guide. Paddle through Mekong River to the western side of Don Det before your group will complete the Don Khong loop. If you opt for a full day tour, you can enjoy a traditional Lao picnic lunch by the river. Afterwards, you’ll continue to the Lao–Cambodian border, where may be able to spot some Irrawaddy dolphins.

Irrawaddy dolphin (Na-Me / Shutterstock.com)

This is the end of our 3-day suggested itinerary. You may extend your holiday for as long as you prefer or until you get to see all attractions that interest you. Take time to meet the locals, sample the best Lao dishes and learn about Laos’ rich history. If the pace gets too hectic, then reorder your sightseeing priorities. Happy travel!

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/4000-islands-laos/feed/0A day in Paris, France – How to make the most of you layoverhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/paris-france-layover/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/paris-france-layover/#respondMon, 24 Jul 2017 17:16:21 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4094Transiting through Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, or any of the other airports around Paris, with 24 hours or less between flights? Be sure to make the most of your layover in Paris by using our 24-hour suggested itinerary. You may not consider yourself lucky if your layover is just 24 hours or less, but...

]]>Transiting through Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, or any of the other airports around Paris, with 24 hours or less between flights? Be sure to make the most of your layover in Paris by using our 24-hour suggested itinerary. You may not consider yourself lucky if your layover is just 24 hours or less, but trust us, there are highlights in the city that you don’t want to miss. This itinerary will lead you to the city’s famous tourist attractions and some of the best places to eat. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs. Feel free to skip an attraction if you feel the pace might be a bit breathless. Enjoy Paris!

Things to know before traveling to Paris, France:

Speak French first – People who start babbling in English without even attempting to speak French first are seen very rude in France. Learn to say some basic French greetings and ask politely whether the person speaks some English. Neglecting to greet a person in French, whether you are asking the cost of a particular stuff or just asking directions, will likely get an undesired response. When you enter or exit a store or restaurant, do not forget to say “bonjour” and “au revoir”. Remember these handy phrases:

Bonjour. S’il vous plaît… (Hello, please…)

Parlez-vous anglais ? (Do you speak English?)

Merci (Thank you)

Currency exchange – France uses the euro, the same currency used by most European Union countries with the exception of the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway. Prior to travelling, you can buy some euros (enough for one day or whatever your preference) and then exchange your money in the banks to get the best rates. You can also use the ATMs at all main squares of every town, major airports and train stations.

Etiquette – For first time visitors, it is important to remember some do’s and dont’s to enjoy a faux pas free journey in France. Always greet with titles unless you’re on familiar terms with them. In France men are addressed as Monsieur (Mister) and women as Madame (Mrs./Ms.) or Mademoiselle (Miss). The French eat slowly. When eating at restaurants, the French servers will never ask “are you finished with that?” because for them, eating is a pleasure, not a task.

Getting around – Being a relatively small city, Paris can be easily explored on foot or on bicycle (you can either bike on your own or you can join one of the guided biking tours offered in the city). If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver to take you around Paris. This option is expensive, but it will give you complete control of the trip. For our suggested itinerary, we recommend walking as you can always learn something unexpected when you do explore on your own.

Accommodation – There are many types of holiday accommodation in Paris, from luxury hotels to cheaper accommodation like bed and breakfasts and inns. If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, we recommend a stay in the historical center since all of the main sights are so close to each other and can be easily reached on foot. If you don’t plan to stay overnight and go straight to the airport after your layover tour, then you can store your luggage at the luggage counters and baggage storage facilities located at the CDGVAL (Charles de Gaulle Véhicule Automatique Léger) station exit, near the RER train station.

Detailed itinerary: A day in Paris, France – How to make the most of you layover

9 AM

Our first matter of business is breakfast. Obviously, the first meal of every trip should be solid. So, we recommend some top-quality, artisanal baguettes, which are long, thin loaf of French bread with a crunchy crust and soft fluffy crumb. One of the best places to get baguettes is at Eric Kayser Restaurant, which has several locations through-out Paris.

10 AM

After breakfast, spend the morning wandering downQuays de la Seine, listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1991. Along the banks of River Seine you will find Paris’ most famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and Notre-Dame. Do not forget to leave an extra hour atNotre Dame de Paris and marvel at its French Gothic architecture.

Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as Notre-Dame Cathedral or simply Notre-Dame, is a medieval Catholic cathedral on the Île de la Cité in the fourth arrondissement of Paris. It was complited in 1345 (WDG Photo / Shutterstock.com)

12 PM

No trip to Paris is complete without Steak Frites (meaning steak and fries in French). This popular but simple dish consists of beef steak paired with French fries, is considered a national dish by both Belgium and France. Some of the best places to get this meal is at Le Relais de Venise, Le Severo, Le Voltaire, Au Boeuf Couronné, and La Maison de l’Aubrac.

2 PM

After lunch, continue your walking tour. This time, visit some fromageriesand chocolatiers. On this tour, you will surely realize that Paris is not just the city of lights, but also a gastronomic hub of France. Laurent Dubois is one of the best cheese shops in the city, and is actually a Meilleur Ouvrier de France, a title given to the Best Craftsman of France. Here, you can choose from so many limited-production cheeses like the fresh goat’s cheeses with peach, Comté cheese, Vacherin Fribourgeois (Swiss cheese), and Boulette d’Avesnes (French-Belgian cheese).

Being the leader in the gourmet chocolate market, France is home to an ever growing numbers of chocolatiers. If you would like to do chocolate tour on your own, then you may visit some f the top-rated sweet boutiques within the city like the Un Dimanche à Paris, Meert, Edwart, and Jacques Genin. If you want to learn more about the French art of making chocolates, then join a Chocolate Walking Tour, which lasts for about 2 hours. In this tour, you will taken to the top-rated chocolate shops, which normally includes free tasting. Savor all things chocolate while learning the history and traditional chocolate-making methods in France.

5 PM

In the afternoon, take the Métro to the Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station. Then, climb the 284 stairs to the top of Arc de Triomphe for a grand view of Paris. Up there, you can also view Champs-Élysées and Musée du Louvre, your next destinations. Descend to the Métro station beneath the Arc de Triomphe and take Line 1 to the Champs-Élysées-Clemenceau station. Stroll along Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, Jardin des Tuileries then to Musée du Louvre.

The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly named Place de l’Étoile (muratart / Shutterstock.com)

8 PM

In the evening, go to a traditional French restaurant for dinner. There are several restaurants to choose from near Musée du Louvre, and many offers no reservation dining. The customary French dinner hour is 8:00 PM. Some of the top-rated restaurants near Musee du Louvre are Bateau le Calife, Restaurant Guy Savoy and Zebulon Palais Royal.

Have you been to Paris or anywhere else in France? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

]]>https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/europe/paris-france-layover/feed/03 days in Hanoi, Vietnam just like Anthony Bourdainhttps://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-hanoi-vietnam-food/
https://wherewouldyougo.com/destinations/asia/3-days-hanoi-vietnam-food/#respondSat, 15 Jul 2017 16:02:15 +0000https://wherewouldyougo.com/?p=4081Have you been watching travel TV shows for years? Ever wanted to go on a foodie tour just like Anthony Bourdain? Our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary will take you to some of the places featured in the 8th season premiere of Anthony Bourdain’s award winning travelogue Parts Unknown in Hanoi, Vietnam. For 3 days, you...

]]>Have you been watching travel TV shows for years? Ever wanted to go on a foodie tour just like Anthony Bourdain? Our 3-day suggested foodie itinerary will take you to some of the places featured in the 8th season premiere of Anthony Bourdain’s award winning travelogue Parts Unknown in Hanoi, Vietnam. For 3 days, you would be able to visit Halong Bay, the Old Quarter of Hanoi, and some unique local shops like the Cussing Noodles. If this is your first time in Hanoi, you may fine tune this itinerary to include some tourist attractions in between the suggested foodie destinations.

Things to consider before traveling to Vietnam:

Language – Vietnamese is the official language of Vietnam. About 10% of the people can speak fluent English, mostly for business purposes. Most people in Hot An can understand and speak a decent level of English, so you can absolutely get by without speaking Vietnamese language. However, not all people in Hanoi can speak English so learning a few basic Vietnamese words and phrases is recommended. Just like in other countries, speaking at least some Vietnamese phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by the locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency used in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs can be found in Airport, most tourist centers and shopping malls across the country. Exchanging money in Hanoi is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in Southeast Asia. It’s also good to know that bigger establishments accept US dollars. International credit cards are accepted at most hotels and high-end stores, though small businesses, especially independently-owned stores and restaurants may accept cash only.

The đồng (/ˈdɒŋ/; Vietnamese pronunciation: [ɗôŋm]) (sign: ₫; code: VND) has been the currency of Vietnam since May 3, 1978

Safety – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Vietnam. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Hanoi is a safe city to travel in. Scam is the most common problem in tourists’ areas and remains the number one source of complaints from foreign visitors. Every traveler should take safety precautions because there has been incidence of petty crimes like pick pocketing and snatching, ATM scams, armed robberies and other opportunistic crimes targeting tourists. If you ever find yourself in Hanoi and other major Vietnamese cities, you have to remember that not every Vietnamese person you meet is out to scam you. Do your research, keep all your wits about you and always ask for personal recommendations from other travelers.

Where to stay – Hanoi has a wide range of accommodation options, with something for every level of comfort and budget. If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, we recommend accommodation options available in the old quarter to get easy access to most tourist attractions and dining options. Ba Dinh District is another great option, which has the main cultural and historical monuments Hanoi. If you’ve been to Hanoi once before, and would like to venture away from the center, then we suggest guesthouses along the Tay Ho (Hanoi West Lake).

Getting there – Hanoi, the capital of the reunified Vietnam, is located in Northern part of the country. Its geographical location is great because of its proximity to China and other countries in Southeast Asia. By air, you can book a flight to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), located in the Phu Minh Commune in Soc Son District, from major cities in Asia like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Tokyo, Seoul, Busan, Macau, Hong Kong and Singapore. By train, you can book your tickets to Hanoi train station from major Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Hue, Da Nang and Nha Trang. By bus, there are also numerous departures for all domestic routes.

Getting around – Getting around in Hanoi is fairly easy as most roads, walkways and bridges are well maintained. The city is quite small so you can easily explore by walking or renting a bike. Public transportation is easy to get used to and is budget friendly. Xe Om (motorcycle taxi) is one of the most famous ways to get around the city. Make sure to negotiate the fare before hopping on the motorcycle. Also, always carry a map (paper maps or digital maps in your smartphone), the name of your destination written down in Vietnamese and small bills for payment. If you prefer this mode of transport, make sure to ask your hotel receptionist for estimates. Other transportation options include local taxis (reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun), local buses and rental motorbikes.

Detailed itinerary: 3 days in Hanoi, Vietnam just like Anthony Bourdain

Day 1: Hanoi Self Guided Tour

On your first day, start early and eat at one of the sidewalk restaurants in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. There’s no better way to start the day than slurping down a bowl of steaming hot and spicy Bún Ốc (snail rice noodles). It is one of the most popular breakfast dishes in Hanoi made from processed snail and rice noodles with the delightful addition of fresh vegetables and various herbs. Where to eat this dish? Just go down the streets of the old quarter and look for a place that you see a large number of local people gathering.

The bird cages of Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Igor Dymov / Shutterstock.com)

After breakfast, make your way to the Temple of Literature. It is one of the oldest sites in Hanoi and was once the site of the Imperial Academy, Vietnam’s first university. Aside from beautiful architecture and artifacts, this is also a perfect place to learn about the Confucian and Chinese roots of Vietnam. Take a quick coffee break and get an authentic local experience at one of the sidewalk coffee stalls near the Temple of Literature. Order egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a popular Vietnamese drink made from Robusta coffee, egg yolk, condensed milk and sugar.

For lunch, make your way to the “Cussing Noodles” restaurant and order Bánh canh, another popular dish in Vietnam made from thick noodle soup with pork hock. The name of the restaurant was derived from its mean owner, who shouts at every hungry customers to to hurry up and order, or just go home if they want to order something that isn’t included in their menu. Foreign travelers might be shocked or amused of this treatment but when you get to eat the Bánh canh, you’ll say it worth it.

After lunch, a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an excellent addition to your trip. This large memorial is dedicated Ho Chi Minh, which contains the embalmed body of the most iconic Vietnamese leader.

In the evening, watch the Water Puppet Theater Show. Not only this a good alternative to shopping and sight-seeing, it will also provide great entertainment as well as an opportunity to learn about this age-old art of North Vietnam. What makes this performance amazing is that it is distinctly Vietnamese – the ancient legends, folk tales, music and setting. After the show, head to the Bia Hơi Hải Xồm, the Vietnamese version of Beer garden. Here, you can get a taste of freshly brewed beer for just 45 cents!

Behind the scene of the famous Water Puppet Shows (Photography / Shutterstock.com)

Day 2: Halong Bay

On day 2, embark on one of the most interesting day trips out of the city by heading to Halong Bay. It is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Hanoi, but it is no wonder why. This picturesque destination is rich with biological and geological diversity enough to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. The best way to explore Ha Long Bay is through boat tours and sea kayak expeditions that will take visitors to thousands of towering limestone islands topped by lush rain forests. If you want to experience Halong Bay just like how Anthony Bourdain did, then book your trip on Emeraude. This rehabilitated steamer from the early 20th century will take you to some 1,000 towering limestone islands in the Gulf of Tonkin. For more information, check out their official website.

On day 3, continue your self-guided foodie tour of Hanoi. Our first matter of business is breakfast. Obviously, breakfast of every trip should be solid. So, we recommend some famous Banh Cuon (Vietnamese steamed rice rolls) at Thanh Van Banh Cuon located at 14 Hang Ga, Old Quarter. This Northern Vietnamese dish is made from steamed rice flour pancakes combined with minced pork and chopped mushrooms. It also comes with a small bowl of fish sauce mixed with chopped red hot pepper and garlic.

For lunch, every Vietnamese will suggest Bún chả, made from delicious Kebab rice noodles, grilled pork, vermicelli and nước chấm (Vietnamese fermented special fish sauce). First time travelers might get confused on how to eat this dish with baskets of herbs and grilled pork patties, so make sure to search about Anthony Bourdain’s bún chả etiquette.

For your last dinner in Hanoi, try the Vietnamese Grilled Fish with Turmeric at Chả Cá Thăng Long. This legendary dish is made from a special kind of fish (Vietnamese call it cá Lăng) served grilled and and loaded with turmeric.

If you want to learn more about Vietnamese Cuisine, then join a food tour which lasts for about 3 hours. Hanoi Street Food Tours, HanoiKids Tour, Adventure Indochina Travel and Classy Travel – Day Tours are some of the top-rated tour companies in Hanoi offering excellent food tours. These food tours have excellent reviews in TripAdvisor, so you might want to check out what travelers say.

If you want a more in-depth food experience, then you may consider joining a traditional cooking class, wherein you will learn how to cook the most popular Vietnamese cuisines and know its history and origin. You will also be introduced to traditional Hanoi flavors and learn the simplest way to cook them. There are plenty of tours offered online, so make sure to read reviews first before you make your reservation. Orchid Cooking Class & Restaurant, Blue Butterfly Cooking Class, Hanoi Cooking Centreand Awesome Travel – Home Cooking Class offer some of the best cooking classes in Hanoi based on TripAdvisor reviews.

This is the end of our 3-day suggested itinerary. The sequence of activities and attractions above are just a guide and you can definitely change it to suit your interests. Travel to Vietnam when you are ready because it is definitely not for everyone. Go with your eyes open and experience the charm of this country.

Have you been to Hanoi or anywhere else in Vietnam? Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.